NH₃(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ NH₄⁺(aq) + OH⁻(aq)
Here's a breakdown:
* NH₃(aq) represents ammonia dissolved in water (aqueous solution).
* H₂O(l) represents liquid water.
* NH₄⁺(aq) represents the ammonium ion, formed when ammonia accepts a proton (H⁺) from water.
* OH⁻(aq) represents the hydroxide ion, formed when water loses a proton.
Explanation:
Ammonia is a weak base, meaning it can accept protons. In the presence of water, a small portion of ammonia molecules will react with water molecules, accepting a proton and forming ammonium ions (NH₄⁺). Simultaneously, water molecules will lose a proton, forming hydroxide ions (OH⁻). This process creates a basic solution due to the presence of hydroxide ions.
Key points:
* The reaction is reversible, meaning it can proceed in both directions.
* The position of the equilibrium favors the reactants (ammonia and water) more than the products (ammonium and hydroxide ions). This means that most ammonia molecules remain unreacted.
* The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
* This reaction is important in understanding the properties of ammonia as a base and its ability to neutralize acids.
