Ammonium nitrate is explosive because
A) the ammonium ion decomposes readily.
B) the ammonium ion can be oxidized by the nitrate ion.
C) the nitrate ion decomposes readily.
D) the ammonium ion is readily reduced.
E) nitrate reacts readily with oxygen in air.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ammonium nitrate is explosive because the ammonium ion can be easily oxidized by the nitrate ion. The reaction releases a large amount of energy, resulting in an explosion. This reaction is exothermic and produces nitrogen gas, water vapor, and oxygen. The decomposition of ammonium nitrate produces a considerable amount of gas, which is why it is used in explosives.

Ammonium Nitrate Is Explosive Because