AQUA AMMONIAE Meaning and
Definition
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Aqua ammoniae, also known as ammonium hydroxide or ammonia water, is a solution of ammonia gas (NH3) dissolved in water (H2O). It is commonly used as a cleaning agent, as well as in various industrial and laboratory applications.
The term "aqua ammoniae" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" meaning water, and "ammoniae" which refers to ammonia. The solution is prepared by dissolving ammonia gas in water, resulting in a colorless and pungent liquid with a strong odor.
With a chemical formula of NH4OH, aqua ammoniae is classified as a weak base. It undergoes hydrolysis in water to form ammonium ions (NH4+) and hydroxide ions (OH-), contributing to its basic properties. The concentration of ammonia in the solution can vary, typically ranging from 5% to 10%, depending on its intended use.
Aqua ammoniae finds various applications in industries such as cleaning and sanitizing, pharmaceuticals, and the production of textiles, plastics, and fertilizers. It is commonly used as a household cleaner and is also an important ingredient in certain personal care products. In laboratories, it is often used as a reagent or as a medium for dilution or dissolution of substances.
However, due to its strong alkaline nature, aqua ammoniae can be hazardous. It can cause irritation or burns on contact with skin or eyes, and inhalation of its fumes can lead to respiratory issues. Therefore, it is crucial to handle and store aqua ammoniae carefully, following appropriate safety guidelines.
Etymology of AQUA AMMONIAE
The word "Aqua ammoniae" is derived from Latin and can be broken down as follows:
1. Aqua: This is a Latin word meaning "water". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₂ekʷeh₂, meaning "water".
2. Ammoniae: This is a Latin term derived from the Greek word "ammoniakon", which means "ammoniac" or "gaseous ammonia". The Greek term "ammoniakon" itself refers to the temple of Zeus Ammon in ancient Libya, where a mysterious substance with a strong smell was discovered. The substance was commonly known as "salt of Ammon".
So, when combined, "Aqua ammoniae" literally translates to "water of ammonia" or "ammoniac water". It is a term used in chemistry to refer to a solution of ammonia in water.
