Ammonium bicarbonate is a white crystalline compound used in baking as a leavening agent. It releases carbon dioxide gas when heated, resulting in light and fluffy baked goods.
| IUPAC Name | Ammonium bicarbonate |
| Molecular Formula | NH4HCO3 |
| CAS Number | 1066-33-7 |
| Synonyms | Acid ammonium carbonate; Baker’s ammonia; Carbonic acid ammonium salt (1:1); Ammonium hydrogen carbonate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/CH2O3.H3N/c2-1(3)4;/h(H2,2,3,4);1H3 |
Please note that the InChI value provided is a simplified representation and may not be complete.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Properties
Ammonium Bicarbonate Formula
The chemical formula of ammonium bicarbonate is NH4HCO3. It consists of one ammonium ion (NH4+) and one bicarbonate ion (HCO3-). This formula represents the composition of the compound, indicating the presence of ammonium and bicarbonate groups.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Molar Mass
The molar mass of ammonium hydrogen carbonate is calculated by adding up the atomic masses of its constituent elements. For ammonium hydrogen carbonate (NH4HCO3), the molar mass is approximately 79.06 grams per mole. This value is important for various chemical calculations and conversions.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Boiling Point
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate does not have a distinct boiling point since it decomposes into gaseous products upon heating. However, the decomposition process begins around 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. As the temperature increases, the compound breaks down into ammonia (NH3), water (H2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Ammonium Bicarbonate Melting Point
The melting point of ammonium hydrogen carbonate is approximately 41 to 60 degrees Celsius. When heated, the compound undergoes sublimation, transitioning directly from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid phase.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Density g/mL
The density of ammonium hydrogen carbonate is around 1.59 grams per milliliter (g/mL) at room temperature. This value represents the mass of the compound per unit volume. The density of ammonium hydrogen carbonate affects its behavior in various applications and its solubility in different solvents.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of ammonium hydrogen carbonate is approximately 79.06 grams per mole. This value is derived by summing up the atomic masses of the elements present in the compound (nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen). The molecular weight is essential for calculating the amount of ammonium hydrogen carbonate required in chemical reactions.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Structure
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate has a crystalline structure composed of ammonium (NH4+) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) ions. The ammonium ion is formed by the combination of a nitrogen atom and four hydrogen atoms, while the bicarbonate ion consists of a carbon atom bonded to three oxygen atoms.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Solubility
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate is highly soluble in water. It readily dissolves in aqueous solutions, releasing ammonium ions and bicarbonate ions. However, its solubility decreases with decreasing temperature. It is sparingly soluble in alcohol and insoluble in most organic solvents.
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Specific Gravity | 1.586 g/cm³ |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Ammonia-like odor |
| Molar Mass | 79.06 g/mol |
| Density | 1.59 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 41-60 °C |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in water; sparingly soluble in alcohol |
| Vapour Pressure | Not applicable |
| Vapour Density | Not applicable |
| pKa | Not applicable |
| pH | ~7 |
Please note that the values provided are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as purity and environmental conditions.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Safety and Hazards
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate poses some safety considerations and hazards. It can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. Direct exposure may cause discomfort, including burning sensations. It is important to handle the compound with care and use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles. Additionally, ammonium hydrogen carbonate can release harmful ammonia gas when heated, so adequate ventilation is necessary in such situations. The compound is not flammable and does not have a specific flash point. Proper storage, labeling, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to minimize risks associated with ammonium hydrogen carbonate handling and use.
| Hazard Symbols | Xi (Irritant) |
| Safety Description | – Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and inhalation.\n- Use appropriate personal protective equipment.\n- Provide adequate ventilation when handling.\n- Store properly and label containers.\n- Follow safety protocols. |
| UN IDs | Not applicable |
| HS Code | 28369990 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified |
| Packing Group | Not classified |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity; irritant to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. |
Please note that the information provided is general in nature and may not cover all aspects of safety and hazards related to ammonium hydrogen carbonate. It is important to refer to specific safety data sheets and regulations for comprehensive guidance.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing ammonium hydrogen carbonate.
One common method involves the reaction between ammonia gas (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in an aqueous solution. In this process, you bubble the two gases directly into the water, and the water forms an ammonium hydrogen carbonate solution. Then, you concentrate and crystallize the solution to obtain the solid compound.
Another approach is the reaction between ammonia and carbon dioxide in a solvent, such as methanol or ethanol. The reaction takes place under pressure and at an elevated temperature, resulting in the formation of ammonium hydrogen carbonate crystals.
Treating ammonium carbonate with carbon dioxide gas yields ammonium hydrogen carbonate and water. Ammonium carbonate, whether in its solid form or as a solution, reacts with carbon dioxide to produce ammonium hydrogen carbonate.
To synthesize ammonium hydrogen carbonate, one can combine ammonia with carbonic acid. Carbonic acid forms by dissolving carbon dioxide in water, and adding ammonia to the resulting carbonic acid solution produces ammonium hydrogen carbonate.
Ensure that the synthesis of ammonium hydrogen carbonate takes place in a well-ventilated area due to the release of ammonia gas during the reactions. Follow proper safety measures and handling protocols to ensure a safe and efficient synthesis process.
Ammonium Bicarbonate Uses
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate finds various uses across different industries and applications. Here are some of its common uses:
- Baking: Ammonium hydrogen carbonate serves as a leavening agent in baking, particularly for cookies, crackers, and other baked goods. It releases carbon dioxide gas when heated, creating a light and crispy texture.
- Ammonia Production: Ammonium hydrogen carbonate serves as an intermediate compound in the production of ammonia. It can decompose into ammonia and carbon dioxide, which can then be separated and used for various purposes.
- Agriculture: Farmers use it as a nitrogen source in fertilizers to provide essential nutrients for plant growth. Plants easily absorb it due to its solubility in water.
- pH Control: Industries employ ammonium hydrogen carbonate to adjust pH levels in processes like water treatment, dye manufacturing, and pigment production.
- Fire Extinguishers: Some dry-powder fire extinguishers use this compound as a fire suppressant. It smothers flames and disrupts the combustion process.
- Cleaning Agent: Certain industries use it as a cleaning agent to remove dirt, grease, and contaminants from surfaces.
- Textile and Leather Industry: In dyeing and printing processes for textiles and leather goods, ammonium hydrogen carbonate helps fix dyes and improve color fastness.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: It finds application in certain pharmaceutical formulations as a buffering agent or ingredient in medicinal tablets.
The diverse applications of ammonium hydrogen carbonate highlight its versatility and usefulness in multiple industries, particularly in baking, agriculture, pH control, fire suppression, and various manufacturing processes.
Questions:
Q: Is ammonium bicarbonate bad for you?
A: Ammonium hydrogen carbonate can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities, causing irritation to the respiratory system and skin. It should be handled and used with proper precautions.
Q: How to separate ammonium carbonate from ammonium bicarbonate?
A: Ammonium carbonate can be separated from ammonium hydrogen carbonate by heating the mixture, as ammonium bicarbonate decomposes into ammonia, carbon dioxide, and water, leaving behind ammonium carbonate.
Q: How do you calculate the pH of ammonium bicarbonate in water?
A: The pH of ammonium hydrogen carbonate in water can be calculated using the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]), where pKa is the acid dissociation constant and [A-]/[HA] represents the ratio of the conjugate base to the acid.
Q: How to adjust the pH of ammonium bicarbonate buffer?
A: The pH of an ammonium hydrogen carbonate buffer can be adjusted by adding either a strong acid to lower the pH or a strong base to raise the pH while maintaining the appropriate ratio of ammonium bicarbonate to its conjugate base.
Q: Is ammonium bicarbonate safe in food?
A: Ammonium hydrogen carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food, but it should be used in accordance with regulatory guidelines and in appropriate quantities.
Q: What is ammonium bicarbonate buffer?
A: Ammonium hydrogen carbonate buffer is a solution containing ammonium hydrogen carbonate and its conjugate base (or acid), used to maintain a stable pH in various biochemical and biological applications.
Q: What is the molecular mass of ammonium bicarbonate?
A: The molecular mass of ammonium hydrogen carbonate is approximately 79.06 g/mol.
Q: What is the percent composition by mass of hydrogen in NH4HCO3?
A: The percent composition by mass of hydrogen in NH4HCO3 is approximately 6.57%.
Q: Is NH4HCO3 an acid or base?
A: NH4HCO3 can act as both an acid and a base, depending on the context. It can donate a proton (H+) to act as an acid or accept a proton to act as a base.
Q: What is the name of the compound with the formula NH4HCO3?
A: The compound with the formula NH4HCO3 is called ammonium hydrogen carbonate.
Q: Is NH4HCO3 ionic or covalent?
A: NH4HCO3 is considered an ionic compound due to the presence of the ammonium ion (NH4+) and the hydrogen carbonate ion (HCO3-) in its structure.