Question

Write the formula of a compound of hydrogen with (a) nitrogen, which is a gas at \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) and \(1 \mathrm{~atm}\). (b) phosphorus, which is a liquid at \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) and \(1 \mathrm{~atm}\). (c) oxygen, which contains an \(\mathrm{O}-\mathrm{O}\) bond.

Short answer

Answer: The compounds formed are ammonia (NH3), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

Step-by-step solution

Write down the known information

Nitrogen and hydrogen form a gaseous compound at 25°C and 1 atm.

Identify the compound

Nitrogen and hydrogen combine to form ammonia, having the formula NH3, which is a gas at the given conditions. (b) Phosphorus and Hydrogen

Write down the known information

Phosphorus and hydrogen form a liquid compound at 25°C and 1 atm.

Identify the compound

Phosphorus and hydrogen can form phosphine (PH3) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4). At room temperature (25 °C) and 1 atm, phosphoric acid is in liquid form. (c) Oxygen and Hydrogen with an O-O bond

Write down the known information

Oxygen and hydrogen form a compound containing an O-O bond.

Identify the compound

Oxygen and hydrogen can form hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which contains an O-O bond.

Key concepts

Understanding the Structure and Properties of Ammonia (NH3)

Ammonia, with the chemical formula NH3, is a compound that consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms. This simple structure results in a colorless gas with a pungent odor, widely recognized for its use in household cleaners and fertilizers. Its ability to act as a base makes it a crucial chemical in various industrial processes.

Ammonia is also a common nitrogen source in the biosphere and plays a pivotal role in the nitrogen cycle, which is essential for plant life. As a ligand, it can attach to metal ions, forming complex ions that are utilized in coordination chemistry. With a boiling point of -33.34°C, ammonia is a gas at room temperature (25°C) and atmospheric pressure (1 atm).

Role in Fertilizers

Ammonia's high nitrogen content makes it valuable in agriculture to replenish nutrients in the soil. It is often applied directly or in the form of urea and other ammonium salts.

Industrial and Domestic Use

Aside from agriculture, ammonia is used in the production of plastics, explosives, and dyes. In the household, dilute solutions of ammonia serve as powerful cleaning agents.

The Versatility of Phosphoric Acid (H3PO4) in Various Applications

Phosphoric acid is a triprotic acid with the formula H3PO4, indicating it can release three hydrogen ions (protons). In its pure state, it exists as a crystalline solid, but it is often encountered as a colorless, viscous liquid because it readily absorbs water from the atmosphere. This property also makes it a good electrolyte.

Phosphoric acid is notably used in the preparation of phosphate fertilizers, such as triple superphosphate, and in the food industry, it provides tanginess and serves as a preservative in many soft drinks.

Role in Fertilizers

Much like ammonia, phosphoric acid is essential for agriculture. It is a key component of fertilizers due to its ability to supply phosphate, crucial for plant growth.

Industrial Uses

In industry, phosphoric acid is a starting point for the manufacture of many phosphate salts for detergents and water softeners. In its most concentrated form, it can be used for metal cleaning and refining purposes.

Chemical Properties and Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2)

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is composed of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms, linked by the characteristic O-O single bond. It's this bond that grants hydrogen peroxide its unique reactive and oxidative properties. In its pure form, it is a very light blue color, but it appears colorless in dilute solutions.

Acting as a powerful oxidizing agent, hydrogen peroxide is used in bleaching processes for paper and textiles and in the production of certain organic and inorganic compounds.

Disinfectant and Antiseptic Properties

In lower concentrations, hydrogen peroxide serves as a disinfectant. It is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it valuable for sterilization in healthcare settings and in household cleaners.

Environmental Applications

Hydrogen peroxide also acts in environmental cleanup, breaking down pollutants through oxidation processes. It degrades into water and oxygen, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine-based bleaches.