The mass ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen in ammonia is 14:3.
Understanding the Mass Ratio in Ammonia
Ammonia (NH₃) is a compound composed of one nitrogen atom (N) and three hydrogen atoms (H). The mass ratio refers to the proportions of the elements by mass in this compound.
Key Concepts:
- Atomic Mass: Nitrogen has an atomic mass of approximately 14 atomic mass units (amu), while hydrogen has an atomic mass of approximately 1 amu.
- Molecular Mass: The molecular mass of ammonia is the sum of the atomic masses of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms (14 + 3*1 = 17 amu).
Calculating the Mass Ratio
- Nitrogen's Mass: In one molecule of ammonia, nitrogen contributes 14 amu.
- Hydrogen's Mass: The three hydrogen atoms contribute 3 * 1 amu = 3 amu.
- Mass Ratio: Therefore, the mass ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen in ammonia is 14:3.
Practical Implications
- This ratio is fundamental in stoichiometric calculations, enabling chemists to predict the reactants and products required for chemical reactions involving ammonia.
- The ratio shows that a significantly greater mass of ammonia comes from nitrogen compared to hydrogen.
Table: Mass Ratio in Ammonia
| Element | Atomic Mass (amu) | Number of Atoms in NH₃ | Total Mass Contribution (amu) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N) | 14 | 1 | 14 |
| Hydrogen (H) | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| Total | 17 |
Example
When synthesizing ammonia, this mass ratio indicates that for every 14 grams of nitrogen used, you would require approximately 3 grams of hydrogen.
In summary, the mass ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen in ammonia is crucial for understanding its composition and is 14:3.
