In many literatures both (NH4-N) and (NH3-N) are used during analysis of compost (Solid) sample.
Ammonia is a gas with the molecular formula NH3. Ammonia dissolved in water is called ammoniun hydroxide with the molecular formula NH4OH. Hence, writing ammonical Nitrogen as NH3-N or NH4-N should mean same thing.
Ammonia is a gas with the molecular formula NH3. Ammonia dissolved in water is called ammoniun hydroxide with the molecular formula NH4OH. Hence, writing ammonical Nitrogen as NH3-N or NH4-N should mean same thing.
It is important to notice that the parameters the question is about is ”NH3N” and “NH4N” not “NH3” and “NH4+”. This parameter for NH3 and NH4 is normal in wastewater and surface water studies there pH fluctuates and the parameter of interest is the sum of the two.
The “N” in the end of the parameter signifies that the parameter is expressed based on mass of N. By convention this parameter expresses the sum of nitrogen found in reduced N(-III) form. Since both NH3 and NH4+ contain one nitrogen atom 1 mg NH3-N/L is the same as 1 mg NH4-N/L.
Salar and Nicolas explanations on the pH dependant equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ are theoretically correct.
For your answer right formula of Amoniacal Nitrgen is NH3-N.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry