Alkaline gas classification due to this reaction, because aqueous hydroxide ions are produced
Considered toxic as hydroxide formed is corrosive and damage cells
Very reactive and reacts with acids to make salts
Unlike some toxic gases, ammonia has a very pungent smell and instantly recognisable
Safe handling of ammonia gas in large volumes usually involve a fume cupboard
Chemical test
Damp red litmus paper
When submerged in ammonia gas, it turns blue
Synthesising Ammonia
Can be synthesised in the lab by heating a mixture of ammonium salt and an alkali
Produces ammonia gas with other by-products
Ammonia being soluble in water, we can add a desiccant to the reaction to stop this from happening
Method
Mix two spatulas of ammonium chloride with two spatulas of calcium hydroxide in a beaker
Hold damp universal indicator paper and damp red and damp blue litmus paper above mixture to observe changes
Transfer mixture to dry boiling tube and gently warm using a Bunsen burner on a heat resistant mat, collect ammonia gas in a secondary boiling tube mouth facing down
Submerge the mouth of the boiling tube holding the collected ammonia gas in a beaker of water
Test the water before and after with universal indicator paper, noting any colour change