Haber process

From Citizendium
Revision as of 05:34, 25 May 2007 by imported>Oliver Smith (Fixed formatting)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

The Haber process is a process used to produce the useful substance ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen.

Sources of gases

Hydrogen

Hydrogen can be obtained through two methods:

  • Electrolysis of water. Pure water is a poor conductor of electricity, so often a soluble ionic compound is added, such as an acid, base or salt. Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) is often used [1].

Reaction

N2 (g) + H2 (g) -> NH3 (g)

Reaction

Le Chatelier's principle

Temperature

Pressure

Catalyst

Industry

Uses of ammonia