Overview

Ammonium sulfate (uh-MOH-ni-um SUL-fate) is an odorless, colorless to white crystalline solid that occurs in nature as the mineral mascagnite. In 2004, 2.6 million metric tons (2.9 million short tons) of the compound were produced in the United States, placing it in 21st place among chemicals made in that year. More than 95 percent of the ammonium sulfate produced is used in the production of fertilizers.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Diammonium sulfate; sulfuric acid, diammonium salt

Formula:

(NH₄)₂SO₄

Elements:

Nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen

Compound Type:

Inorganic salt

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

132.14 g/mol

Melting Point:

Not applicable; decomposes above 235°C (455°F)

Boiling Point:

Not applicable

Solubility:

Soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol, acetone, and other common organic solvents

How It Is Made

The primary method of preparation for ammonium sulfate is the direction reaction between ammonia gas (NH₃) and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). The ammonium sulfate produced in...