What is the Difference Between Ammonium Hydroxide and Sodium Hydroxide?

Ammonium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide are both bases that release the hydroxide ion (OH-) in solution, but they have some differences in their properties and reactions with other substances. Here are the key differences between ammonium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide:

1. Chemical Formula: Ammonium hydroxide has the chemical formula NH4OH, while sodium hydroxide has the chemical formula NaOH.
2. State: Ammonium hydroxide is a liquid, whereas sodium hydroxide can absorb water vapor and carbon dioxide from the air when exposed to normal air.
3. Odor: Ammonium hydroxide has a pungent odor, while sodium hydroxide is odorless.
4. Reaction with Copper Salts: Ammonium hydroxide reacts with copper salts, producing a precipitate (a solid). In contrast, sodium hydroxide reacts with ammonium salts to produce a gas and water.
5. Strength: Sodium hydroxide is a stronger base than ammonia.
6. Applications: The applications of sodium hydroxide include its use in the manufacturing of many soaps, medicine such as aspirin, controlling water acidity, dissolving unwanted material in the wood when producing wood and paper products, etc..

Ammonium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide can be distinguished using copper sulfate solution. When copper sulfate reacts with ammonium hydroxide, it produces a precipitate, while the reaction between sodium hydroxide and copper sulfate produces a solid copper hydroxide and sodium sulfate.

Comparative Table: Ammonium Hydroxide vs Sodium Hydroxide

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

The key difference between ammonium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide is their chemical composition. Ammonium hydroxide has the chemical formula NH4OH, while sodium hydroxide has the chemical formula NaOH. Another easily distinguishable difference between the two is their odor. Ammonium hydroxide has a pungent odor, whereas sodium hydroxide is odorless.