H

Haber Process

N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ | ΔH = −92 kJ/mol
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationN₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ | ΔH = −92 kJ/mol
Also Known AsHaber-Bosch process, Ammonia synthesis

What is Haber Process?

The industrial synthesis of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen gases: N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃. Conditions: iron catalyst, 400-500°C, 150-300 atm pressure. The process is a compromise between yield (favored by low temperature) and rate (favored by high temperature). Fundamental to fertilizer production.

Formula & Notation

N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ | ΔH = −92 kJ/mol

Other Names / Synonyms: Haber-Bosch process, Ammonia synthesis

Properties & Characteristics

Conditions: iron catalyst (with K₂O and Al₂O₃ promoters), 400–500°C, 150–300 atm pressure, continuous removal of NH₃ product. Equilibrium yield at 400°C, 200 atm ≈ 15–25%. Lower temperature increases yield but slows rate — operating at 400–500°C is an industrial compromise. Conversion per pass ≈ 15%; unreacted gases recycled. Catalyst activation requires careful startup procedures.

Uses & Applications

Primary industrial method producing over 150 million tonnes of ammonia annually. Ammonia used for: nitrogen fertilizers (urea, ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate) — feeds approximately half the world population. Manufacture of nitric acid (Ostwald process). Explosives (TNT, RDX via nitric acid). Refrigerants. Cleaning products. Plastics and pharmaceutical synthesis.

Safety Information

High-pressure, high-temperature operations require specialized equipment and strict safety protocols. Ammonia is toxic (IDLH = 300 ppm), corrosive to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Liquid ammonia causes cryogenic burns. Iron catalyst is pyrophoric when freshly prepared. Emergency response requires full respiratory protection.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Haber Process
Formula N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ | ΔH = −92 kJ/mol
Synonyms Haber-Bosch process, Ammonia synthesis

Frequently Asked Questions

The industrial synthesis of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen gases: N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃. Conditions: iron catalyst, 400-500°C, 150-300 atm pressure. The process is a compromise between yield (favored by low temperature) and rate (favored by high temperature). Fundamental to fertilizer production.

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