Question

Why does ammonia act like a base?
(select those that apply)
It combines with H+ions.
Ammonia releases OH-ions.
It increases the OH-concentration.
It dissociates easily.

Answer 1

2.)ammonia releases OH- ions******when it is in water***********

Answer 2

NH3 + H2O => NH4(+) + OH(-)

got it ?

Answer 3

Okay, but doesn't it bond with H?

Answer 4

1. It combines with H+ ions according to Bronsted-Lewis theory:

NH3 + H2O -> NH4+ +OH-

2. It releases OH- ions..no not really, only when it disassociates with water.

3. It increases the OH- concentration..same thing as above. H2O's conjugate base is OH-.

4. It disassociates easily - It's actually a weak base. NaOH and KOH are much stronger.

Answer 5

source: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090513201432AAF1Orc

Answer 6

by the way : \(\Huge{\mathbb{Welcome}\textbf{To}\mathbb{Open}\textbf{Study}}\)

Answer 7

So it does combine with H? & it doesn't release OH? & thanks! I like it here :)

Answer 8

Sorry m not so good in chem.. but may be @Vaidehi09 help u

Answer 9

Okay, thanks!

Answer 10

do u know abt lewis acids and bases?

Answer 11

Somewhat..

Answer 12

ok, so a lewis acid is one which accepts a lone pair of e- and lewis base is one which donates a lone pair of e-.
now look at the molecule of ammonia:

u can see that NH3 falls in the category of donors, right? so its a lewis base.