Here's the balanced chemical equation:
2 NH₃ + H₂SO₄ → (NH₄)₂SO₄
Explanation:
* Ammonia (NH₃) is a weak base, meaning it accepts protons (H⁺).
* Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is a strong acid, meaning it readily donates protons (H⁺).
When ammonia and sulfuric acid react, the ammonia molecules accept protons from the sulfuric acid, forming ammonium ions (NH₄⁺). This process leaves behind sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻), which combine with the ammonium ions to form ammonium sulfate ((NH₄)₂SO₄).
Key points:
* The reaction is highly exothermic, releasing heat.
* Ammonium sulfate is a salt that is commonly used as a fertilizer.
* The reaction is reversible, but the equilibrium lies far to the right, favoring the formation of ammonium sulfate.
This reaction is a classic example of acid-base chemistry, demonstrating the neutralization of an acid by a base.
