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💏intro to chemistry review

Ammonium hydroxide

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Ammonium hydroxide is a solution of ammonia in water, commonly referred to as ammonia water. It consists of ammonium ions (NH4^+) and hydroxide ions (OH^-) and is widely used as a cleaning agent due to its basic nature. The presence of both ammonium and hydroxide ions gives it unique properties that relate to the behavior of nonmetals, particularly nitrogen and oxygen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Ammonium hydroxide is commonly used in household cleaning products due to its effectiveness in breaking down grease and stains.
  2. It is considered a weak base, meaning it does not fully dissociate in solution, but still raises the pH significantly.
  3. In industrial settings, ammonium hydroxide is used in the production of fertilizers and as a refrigerant.
  4. The presence of ammonia in ammonium hydroxide can be toxic at high concentrations, making proper handling crucial.
  5. Due to its non-toxic nature when diluted, ammonium hydroxide is often used in food processing as a pH regulator.

Review Questions

  • How does the structure of ammonium hydroxide relate to the properties of nonmetals?
    • Ammonium hydroxide is formed from the combination of ammonia, which consists of nitrogen, a nonmetal, and water. The nitrogen atom in ammonia contributes to the basic properties of ammonium hydroxide due to its ability to accept protons, while the hydroxide ion from water further enhances its basicity. This relationship illustrates how the properties of nonmetals can influence the behavior of compounds they form.
  • Discuss the role of ammonium hydroxide in both household cleaning products and industrial applications.
    • Ammonium hydroxide serves a dual purpose in both household cleaning and industrial applications due to its strong degreasing capabilities. In household products, it effectively breaks down dirt and stains, making it popular for cleaning surfaces. In industrial settings, it is utilized not only for cleaning but also in the manufacture of fertilizers and as a refrigerant due to its ability to absorb heat efficiently. This highlights its versatility as a chemical compound derived from nonmetals.
  • Evaluate the safety implications of using ammonium hydroxide in various applications while considering its chemical properties.
    • Using ammonium hydroxide presents several safety implications that must be carefully evaluated. While it is effective as a cleaning agent and safe in diluted forms for food processing, concentrated solutions can be toxic and cause respiratory irritation. Its basic nature raises the pH, which can lead to chemical burns on contact with skin or eyes. Therefore, understanding its chemical properties and potential hazards is essential for safe handling in both household and industrial contexts.