NH₃(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ NH₄⁺(aq) + OH⁻(aq)
Here's a breakdown:
* NH₃(aq): Ammonia dissolved in water (aqueous solution).
* H₂O(l): Water in its liquid state.
* NH₄⁺(aq): Ammonium ion, formed when ammonia gains a proton (H⁺) from water.
* OH⁻(aq): Hydroxide ion, formed when water loses a proton (H⁺) to ammonia.
Explanation:
Ammonia acts as a weak base in water. It accepts a proton from water, forming the ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) and leaving behind a hydroxide ion (OH⁻). The reaction is reversible, meaning some ammonium ions can donate their proton back to hydroxide ions, reforming ammonia and water.
Note: The double arrow (⇌) indicates that the reaction is in equilibrium, meaning it proceeds in both directions simultaneously. The position of the equilibrium lies to the left, meaning ammonia is a weak base and only a small amount of it ionizes in water.
