ammonium nitrate

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Explanation of "Ammonium Nitrate"

Definition:
Ammonium nitrate is a chemical compound made up of ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3-). It is commonly used as a fertilizer in agriculture to help plants grow, but it can also be used as an explosive in construction and mining, and as a propellant in rockets.

Usage Instructions:

• As a fertilizer: It is mixed with soil to provide essential nutrients to plants.
• As an explosive: It is used in controlled amounts for blasting in construction or mining.
• As a propellant: It helps to propel rockets into space.

Examples:

1. Fertilizer: "Farmers often use ammonium nitrate to increase the yield of their crops."
2. Explosive: "Ammonium nitrate is sometimes used in explosives for mining operations."
3. Rocket Propellant: "The rocket was powered by a mixture that included ammonium nitrate."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, ammonium nitrate may be discussed in relation to its chemical properties, safety regulations regarding its storage and handling, and its impact on the environment when used as fertilizer.

Word Variants:

• Ammonium: This is the part of the compound that comes from ammonia (NH3).
• Nitrate: This refers to the nitrate ion, which is derived from nitric acid (HNO3).

Different Meanings:

While "ammonium nitrate" primarily refers to the chemical compound, it can also imply discussions about agricultural practices, explosives safety, or chemical engineering, depending on the context.

Synonyms:

• For fertilizer: nitrogen fertilizer
• For explosive: AN (short form of ammonium nitrate)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "ammonium nitrate" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases like "blow up" when discussing its explosive properties.

Important Note:

Ammonium nitrate needs to be handled carefully because it can be dangerous if not stored or used properly, especially in large quantities. Always follow safety guidelines when working with chemicals.

Academic

Noun

1. used as an explosive and fertilizer and rocket propellant