Ammonium Carbonate Formula with Solved Examples

Ammonium Carbonate

Ammonium Carbonate is also known as Baker’s Ammonia is a chemical compound that includes the ions of the ammonium and carbonate.

The chemical formula for the Ammonium Carbonate is (NH4)2CO3. 

About the Topic

Ammonium carbonate is a crystalline solid, it implies that it has no colour. It is a white powder that contains a strong smell of ammonia. In addition, the ammonium carbonate is non-combustible, which means that it does not burn and is soluble in water. This compound when reacts with the acids produces ammonium salt and CO2 simultaneously. 

On the other hand, its reactions with bases produce ammonia gas. When ammonium carbonate is heated up, it decomposes into carbon dioxide, water, and some other by-products of ammonia.

Formula

The ammonium carbonate formula is (NH4)2CO3

Uses of Ammonium Carbonate

• Leavening Agent

In some of the traditional recipes of countries mainly in northern Europe and Scandinavia, Ammonium carbonate is used as a leavening agent, for example, the name of the recipes are Speculoos, Tunnbröd, or Lebkuchen. Earlier, Baker’s Ammonia was also used to bake a cake. But now it is replaced by baking powder and baking soda due to its pungent smell. 

• In tobacco 

This compound is not just used to bake a cake but is also used in tobacco products to raise their PH. Ammonium carbonate increases the capacity of nicotine which can be absorbed by the body.

Solved Examples

• How should we store the ammonium carbonate? Also, write some measures to be kept in mind while storing it.

Ammonium Carbonate should be stored in a tightly-packed container and must be kept in a cool, dry place.

Measures/precautions

•  Ammonium carbonate must be kept away from incompatible substances.
•  it should not be stored in metal containers as it may lead to some reactions
•  it should be stored in opaque plastic or glass containers.
• Write two chemical ways by which ammonium carbonate can be formed. 

• One can produce ammonium carbonate by reacting ammonium sulphate with ammonium chloride and calcium carbonate in a furnace. 
• Another method to form this compound is by reacting carbon dioxide and ammonia.