How are ammonium salts produced for fertiliser use?

Ammonium salts for fertiliser use are produced through the Haber process and subsequent reactions with acids.

The production of ammonium salts for fertiliser use is a multi-step process that begins with the Haber process. This process involves the direct combination of nitrogen and hydrogen gases under high pressure and temperature in the presence of an iron catalyst to produce ammonia. The equation for this reaction is N2(g) + 3H2(g) ⇌ 2NH3(g).

The ammonia produced is then used to manufacture ammonium salts. This is done by reacting the ammonia with acids. For example, when ammonia reacts with nitric acid, ammonium nitrate is produced. This reaction can be represented by the equation NH3(g) + HNO3(aq) → NH4NO3(s). Ammonium nitrate is a common fertiliser due to its high nitrogen content, which is essential for plant growth.

Similarly, ammonia can react with sulfuric acid to produce ammonium sulfate, another commonly used fertiliser. The equation for this reaction is 2NH3(g) + H2SO4(aq) → (NH4)2SO4(s).

The production of ammonium salts is a crucial process in the fertiliser industry. These salts are rich in nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plants. By using these fertilisers, farmers can significantly increase the yield of their crops. However, it's important to note that the production process is energy-intensive and requires careful handling due to the reactive nature of the substances involved.