Problem 89 - General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications

Question

The text mentions that ammonium perchlorate is an explosion hazard. Assuming that \(\mathrm{NH}_{4} \mathrm{ClO}_{4}\) is the sole reactant in the explosion, write a plausible equation(s) to represent the reaction that occurs.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The balanced chemical equation representing the explosion (or decomposition) of ammonium perchlorate is \(\mathrm{2NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4} \rightarrow \mathrm{N}_{2} + 2\mathrm{HCl} + 2\mathrm{O}_{2}\)

Step 1: Identify the reactant molecule

The Exercise mentions that ammonium perchlorate, written as \(\mathrm{NH}_{4} \mathrm{ClO}_{4}\), is the sole reactant in the explosion.

Step 2: Declare the chemical reaction

The \(\mathrm{NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4}\) molecule will decompose during an explosion into simpler elements and compounds. The most likely products could be Nitrogen \(\mathrm{(N_{2})}\), Hydrogen chloride \(\mathrm{(HCl)}\), and Oxygen \(\mathrm{(O_{2})}\). So the unbalanced equation is: \(\mathrm{NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4} \rightarrow \mathrm{N}_{2} + \mathrm{HCl} + \mathrm{O}_{2}\)

Step 3: Balance the equation

By moving around the coefficients, we will achieve a balanced equation which reflects the law of conservation of mass. After adjusting these coefficients correctly, the chemical equation becomes balanced: \(\mathrm{2NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4} \rightarrow \mathrm{N}_{2} + 2\mathrm{HCl} + 2\mathrm{O}_{2}\)

Key Concepts

Ammonium Perchlorate

Ammonium perchlorate, depicted chemically as \( \mathrm{NH}_{4} \mathrm{ClO}_{4} \), is an interesting compound widely used in rocket propulsion. Its structure consists of an ammonium ion \( \mathrm{NH}_{4}^+ \) and a perchlorate ion \( \mathrm{ClO}_{4}^- \). This compound is known for its explosive properties when heated or subjected to strong shock.

In its solid form, ammonium perchlorate is a white crystalline substance. When it decomposes, it releases a vast amount of energy. This makes it a vital component in solid rocket propellants.

Despite these useful applications, handling ammonium perchlorate requires extreme caution due to its instability under certain conditions.

• Explosive potential - significant in explosions or propulsion systems.
• Safety concerns - careful handling and storage are necessary.
• Reactive nature - can degrade under inappropriate circumstances.

Understanding its basic properties helps in safely managing the compound in labs and industry.

Balanced Chemical Equation

A balanced chemical equation ensures that the number of atoms for each element is conserved on both sides of the equation.
This equilibrium reflects the law of conservation of mass which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed.

In chemical reactions, balancing the equation is crucial to accurately represent the reaction process.

• Select the correct coefficients to equalize the number of each atom on both sides.
• Maintain stoichiometric proportions of compounds as prescribed by the equation.

The equation for the decomposition of ammonium perchlorate starts as:
\[ \mathrm{NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4} \rightarrow \mathrm{N}_2 + \mathrm{HCl} + \mathrm{O}_2 \]
This initial form is unbalanced. Through careful adjustments, the balanced form is obtained as:
\[ 2\mathrm{NH}_{4}\mathrm{ClO}_{4} \rightarrow \mathrm{N}_2 + 2\mathrm{HCl} + 2\mathrm{O}_2 \]
Balancing requires diligence and practice, as omitting an atom or misaligning coefficients leads to inaccuracies.

Decomposition Reaction

In chemistry, a decomposition reaction involves breaking down a single compound into two or more simpler substances.
Ammonium perchlorate routinely undergoes decomposition, exemplified by its explosive reaction when triggered.

This type of reaction is often driven by heat, light, or electricity. Here are key points to remember about decomposition reactions:

• Single compound breaks down into multiple products.
• Commonly involves energy release (exothermic reaction).
• Effective in producing gases or other simpler substances.

In the case of ammonium perchlorate, decomposition releases nitrogen gas \( \mathrm{N}_2 \), hydrogen chloride \( \mathrm{HCl} \), and oxygen \( \mathrm{O}_2 \). This process underscored the explosive behavior of the compound, making it incredibly useful in controlled propulsion systems like rockets. Understanding such reactions helps predict behavior and manage safety measures effectively.