LAQ : Describe the principle of large scale preparation of ammonia

Question

Describe the principle of large scale preparation of ammonia. 

Answer

1. The Haber-Bosch process is the most common method for the large-scale preparation of ammonia.
2. This process involves reacting nitrogen gas and hydrogen gas at high temperatures (around 450°C) and pressures (around 200-300 atmospheres) in the presence of an iron-based catalyst.
3. Nitrogen is obtained from the air through a process called fractional distillation, while hydrogen is obtained from natural gas or other sources through a process called steam reforming.
4. The reactants are compressed and fed into a reactor where they are heated and passed over the catalyst.
5. The reaction produces ammonia gas, which is cooled and liquefied for storage and transport.