Nitrogen and sulfur

🔬 Chapter 13: Nitrogen and Sulfur 🔬

• Learning Outcomes 🎯:

  • Describe and explain the lack of reactivity of nitrogen gas, the basicity of ammonia, and the formation and structure of the ammonium ion.

  • State the industrial importance of ammonia and nitrogen compounds derived from ammonia.

  • State and explain the environmental consequences of the uncontrolled use of nitrate fertilizers.

  • Describe the natural and man-made occurrences of oxides of nitrogen and their catalytic removal from exhaust gases of internal combustion engines.

  • Describe the formation of sulfur dioxide gas from sulfur-contaminated fossil fuel, its role in the formation of acid rain, and how acid rain affects the environment.

• Nitrogen and Its Compounds 🌬️:

  • Nitrogen gas is relatively unreactive due to the triple bond between nitrogen atoms in N2 molecules.

  • Ammonia is a basic compound that forms the ammonium ion when it reacts with acids.

  • Ammonia and its derivatives are industrially important, especially in the production of fertilizers.

• Environmental Impact of Nitrogen Compounds 🌍:

  • The excessive use of nitrate fertilizers can lead to environmental problems such as water pollution and eutrophication.

  • Oxides of nitrogen are pollutants that can be produced naturally or by human activities, such as combustion in engines. They play a role in the formation of acid rain.

• Sulfur Dioxide and Acid Rain ☔:

  • Sulfur dioxide is produced when sulfur-containing fossil fuels are burned.

  • It is a major contributor to acid rain, which can have harmful effects on the environment, including soil, water, and buildings.