Question

How is ammonia manufactured industrially?

Answer 1

Perhaps the most significant nitrogen component is ammonia, which is employed as a precursor to many other more beneficial chemicals.

Ammonia is generally manufactured by Haber’s process. The process involves the following reaction.

\[\ce{N2 + 3H2 <=> 2NH3}\]; ΔH = −93.6 kJ mol⁻¹

The reaction proceeds with a reduction in volume and is reversible and exothermic. The following are the ideal conditions for the highest ammonia yield, according to Le Chatelier's principle:

1. Low temperature: Since the process is exothermic, a low temperature encourages the reaction to go forward, increasing the amount of ammonia produced. Experimental research has determined that the ideal temperature ranges between 720 and 770 K.
2. High pressure: At high pressures, a greater yield of ammonia can be achieved since the reaction continues with a reduction in volume. The ideal pressure range is between 200 and 900 atmospheres.
3. Catalyst: A suitable catalyst must also be utilised to boost the reaction's pace. Finely split iron with molybdenum as a promoter is a commonly used catalyst. These days, iron oxide combined with trace amounts of K₂O and Al₂O₃ is also employed as a catalyst.