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NH₄NO₃
Ammonium nitrate
IUPAC : Ammonium nitrate
NitrateSaltIndustrialEveryday
The most used nitrogen fertiliser worldwide and an industrial explosive component (ANFO). Its dissolution in water is strongly endothermic (instant cold pack). Storage is strictly regulated after several industrial disasters.
3D ball-and-stick representation of Ammonium nitrate (formula NH₄NO₃). Constituent atoms: N, H, O.
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Physical properties
Molar mass80.043 g/mol
State at 20 °Csolid
Density1.725 g/cm³
Melting point442.80 K (170 °C)
Boiling point—
Solubility (H₂O)190 g/100 mL à 20 °C
Structure
Crystal systemOrthorhombic
3D render modeBall-and-stick
Uses and applications
- Nitrogen fertiliser (ammonium nitrate, 34 % N)
- Industrial explosive (ANFO = NH₄NO₃ + fuel oil)
- Instant cold packs (endothermic dissolution)
- Propellant (amateur rocketry)
Safety (GHS)
GHS01 · ExplosiveGHS03 · OxidisingGHS07 · Harmful / irritant
H statements : H201, H272, H302
Strong oxidiser; can detonate by confined thermal decomposition (AZF disaster 2001, Beirut 2020). Harmful if swallowed. Regulated storage (Seveso directive).
Constituent elements
References
Sources : PubChem CID 22985 · CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics