Ammonia is a common nitrogenous (N containing) waste which is produced by the br

Question

Ammonia is a common nitrogenous (N containing) waste which is produced by the breakdown of proteins in the cells of many organisms. In many aquatic animals (fish, protozoa, water dwelling worms, etc.) the ammonia is excreted directly into the water. Ammonia is a polar molecule. The chemical formula for ammonia is NH3.
Fifty goldfish were placed in a 10 gallon aquarium filled with tap water. The pH of the tap water was 6.0 and the levels of dissolved ammonia were 0 parts per million (ppm). After a week it was noted that the fish were not looking healthy.

. Explain in chemical terms why the ammonia excreted by the fish forms a strong base when dissolved in water. You must define the term “base” in your answer

Explanation / Answer

Bacteria turns fish poop into Ammonium (NH4). Fish release NH3 directly in the water. NH4 is a strong because ammonia is weak (remember conjugate acids and bases). So, NH3 + H20 -> NH4+ + OH- Also, bases are defined in different manners (Brønsted-Lowry, Lews, etc.)

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