Ammonia

Ammonia is a chemical compound made up of one nitrogen molecule and 3 hydrogen

molecules. The central nitrogen atom has five outer electrons with an extra electron from
each hydrogen atom. Ammonia, at room temperature, is a colorless gas with a very
penetrating and nauseating odour. It is produced naturally by the decomposition of organic
matter and is also manufactured industrially.
It is easily soluble and evaporates quickly. It is lighter than air, its density is 0.589 times
that of the air in the atmosphere. It condenses easily due to its strong hydrogen bonds
between molecules; the liquid boils at –33.3℃ and freezes at –77.7℃ into white crystals. It
is usually sold in liquid form. Ammonia occurs naturally and is also manufactured. It is an
important source of nitrogen needed by plants and animals. Bacteria found in the intestines
can produce ammonia.