What Is Ammonium?
Ammonium (NH4+) is a polyatomic ion formed from ammonia (NH3). Ammonium is created when ammonia molecules in an aqueous solution gain a hydrogen ion.
In aqueous solutions, ammonia and ammonium exist in equilibrium, depending on the pH of the solution. Ammonium ionically bonds with ions like chloride and carbonate to form salts such as ammonium chloride and ammonium carbonate.
Uses of Ammonium
Ammonium is produced when animals metabolize ammonia. It is toxic to animals, so it is converted to other substances, like urea, for safe excretion.
In humans, ammonium is transformed into urea in the liver via the urea cycle and then excreted in urine by the kidneys. This excreted urea becomes a nutrient source for microorganisms and plants, thus playing a vital role in the nitrogen cycle of ecosystems.