What is the Difference Between Ammonia and Ammonium Hydroxide?

The main difference between ammonia and ammonium hydroxide lies in their physical states and water content.

• Ammonia: Ammonia is a gaseous substance with the chemical formula NH3. It is an inorganic compound and the simplest pnictogen hydride. Ammonia has a colorless gas appearance and a pungent, irritating odor.
• Ammonium Hydroxide: Ammonium hydroxide is a liquid substance with the chemical formula NH4OH. It is an ammonia solution with water content, and its formula is NH3 (aq). When ammonia gas comes into contact with water, ammonium hydroxide is formed.

In summary, ammonia is a gaseous compound, while ammonium hydroxide is a liquid solution containing ammonia and water. Ammonia is a weak base, whereas ammonium is a weak acid. When ammonia is dissolved in water, it forms ammonium hydroxide, which is also referred to as "aqueous ammonia".

Comparative Table: Ammonia vs Ammonium Hydroxide

Here is a table comparing the differences between ammonia and ammonium hydroxide:

Ammonia (NH3) is a gaseous substance with a pungent, irritating odor, while ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) is a liquid solution formed when ammonia gas dissolves in water. Ammonia is anhydrous, meaning it has no water content, whereas ammonium hydroxide is hydrous, containing water. When ammonia gas comes into contact with water, it forms ammonium hydroxide, which is also known as the "ammonia solution".