NH₄⁺
ammonium ion
NH₄⁺ is the ammonium ion, which is a positively charged polyatomic ion with the chemical formula NH4+. It is formed by the protonation of ammonia (NH3), which is a weak base. In other words, when ammonia accepts a hydrogen ion (H+), it becomes the ammonium ion.
Ammonium ions play a critical role in the nitrogen cycle, which is the series of natural processes that convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that can be utilized by plants and other living organisms. Ammonium ions are the primary source of nitrogen for plants, which absorb them from the soil through their roots. The plants then use the nitrogen to synthesize amino acids, proteins, and other important biomolecules.
In addition, ammonium ions are used in various industrial processes, such as the production of fertilizers, explosives, and cleaning agents. They are also used in the treatment of certain medical conditions, such as hepatic encephalopathy and metabolic acidosis.
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