The following two unbalanced equations represent processes which are part of the nitrogen cycle - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 10 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 10
The following two unbalanced equations represent processes which are part of the nitrogen cycle.
I
NH₃(aq) → NH₄⁺(aq)
II
NH₄⁺(aq) → NO₃⁻(aq)
Which one of the fo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The following two unbalanced equations represent processes which are part of the nitrogen cycle - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 10 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
In process I, NH₃(aq) is
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Answer
In process I, the species NH₃, or ammonia, is acting as a base. It gains a proton, converting to NH₄⁺, which is the ammonium ion. Thus, NH₃ is classified as a base in this context.
In process II, NH₄⁺(aq) is undergoing oxidation as it transforms into NO₃⁻(aq), the nitrate ion. During this process, NH₄⁺ loses electrons, indicating that it is being oxidised.
Step 2
In process II, the NH₄⁺(aq) ion is
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Answer
In process II, the NH₄⁺(aq) ion is oxidised, as previously mentioned. It moves from a +1 oxidation state in ammonium to a higher oxidation state in nitrate.