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Ammonia or azane is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula NH3. [1] It is a colourless highly irritating gas with a sharp suffocating odour. Ammonia dissolves easily in water to form ammonium hydroxide solution, which can cause irritation and burns. Ammonia gas is easily compressed and forms a clear, colourless liquid under pressure. It is not highly flammable, but containers of ammonia may explode when exposed to high heat. [2] Ammonia gas can be dissolved in water. This kind of ammonia is called liquid ammonia or aqueous ammonia. Once exposed to open air, liquid ammonia quickly turns into a gas. Ammonia occurs naturally and is produced by human activity. It is an important source of nitrogen, which is needed by plants and animals. Bacteria found in the intestines can produce ammonia. [3]
