Nitrogen and Sulfur

Question 1

Describe Nitrogen.

Answer 1

Unreactive due to triple bond
Diatomic
Non-polar
Used to create ammonia - fertilisers

NH3 + H2O -> NH4+ + OH-
NH4+ is acidic

NH4NO2 + NaOH -> NH3 + NaNO3 + H2O

Forming acid rain:
NO + 0.5O2 -> NO2
NO2 + SO2 -> NO + SO3
NO + 0.5O2 -> NO2
SO3 + H2O -> H2SO4 (acid rain)

Question 2

Describe sulfur.

Answer 2

SO2 gas can be removed using flue gas desulfurisation
Consequences of acid rain:
- Corrosion of limestone buildings
- Acidification of rivers