Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate

NH₄NO₃ → N₂O + 2H₂O

Descripción general

Ammonium nitrate decomposes at about 200 C to form nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and water. At higher temperatures or with confinement, it can decompose explosively to nitrogen, oxygen, and water. The dual nature of ammonium nitrate as both a fertilizer and explosive makes it a significant safety concern.

Participantes

Rol	Sustancia	Coeficiente	Estado
Producto	Water H₂O	2	(g)

Ejemplo cotidiano

The 2020 Beirut explosion that devastated the city's port was caused by the detonation of improperly stored ammonium nitrate.

Importancia industrial

El nitrato de amonio es uno de los fertilizantes más importantes del mundo y también se utiliza en explosivos mineros (ANFO). Existen regulaciones estrictas de almacenamiento debido a los riesgos de explosión.

Propiedades

Tipo: Decomposition
Reversible: No
Energía: Exotérmico
ΔH: -36,0 kJ/mol

Reacciones relacionadas

Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite Decomposition of Carbonic Acid Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction) Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Decomposition of Barium Peroxide Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate Decomposition of Water (Electrolysis) Thermal Decomposition of Copper(II) Carbonate Thermal Decomposition of Mercury(II) Oxide Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate?

The balanced equation is: NH₄NO₃ → N₂O + 2H₂O.

What type of reaction is Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate?

Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate is a decomposition reaction.

Is Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate exothermic or endothermic?

Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -36.0 kJ/mol.