No, ammonia is not acidic; it is alkaline.
Understanding Ammonia's Properties
Ammonia (NH3) is a chemical compound with distinct properties that define it as a base rather than an acid.
Key Characteristics:
- Alkaline Nature: As stated in the reference, ammonia is alkaline, meaning it has a pH between 7 and 14.
- Water Solubility: Ammonia is also water-soluble.
- Base, Not an Acid: Crucially, ammonia functions as a base.
Ammonia as a Base:
Ammonia acts as a base because it can accept a proton (H+) from water. When ammonia dissolves in water, it reacts to form ammonium ions (NH4+) and hydroxide ions (OH-), increasing the concentration of hydroxide ions and raising the pH of the solution. The reaction is:
NH3(aq) + H2O(l) ⇌ NH4+(aq) + OH-(aq)
Summary Table: Ammonia Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Nature | Alkaline (Basic) |
| pH Range | 7-14 |
| Water Soluble | Yes |
| Acid or Base | Base |
