Silver azide
Silver azide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula AgN₃. It is a highly sensitive explosive material that is used primarily in detonators and as a primary explosive in various applications. Silver azide is known for its ability to decompose explosively under certain conditions, releasing nitrogen gas.
Properties[edit | edit source]
Silver azide is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It is poorly soluble in water but can dissolve in ammonia and some other solvents. The compound is highly sensitive to shock, friction, and heat, making it a hazardous material to handle.
Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]
Silver azide consists of silver ions (Ag⁺) and azide ions (N₃⁻). The azide ion is a linear molecule with a negative charge, consisting of three nitrogen atoms connected by covalent bonds. The structure of silver azide can be represented as Ag⁺N₃⁻.
Explosive Properties[edit | edit source]
Silver azide is a primary explosive, meaning it is sensitive to initiation and can detonate with minimal energy input. Upon decomposition, it releases nitrogen gas and metallic silver:
- 2 AgN₃ → 2 Ag + 3 N₂
This reaction is highly exothermic and results in a rapid expansion of gases, which is the basis for its explosive properties.
Preparation[edit | edit source]
Silver azide can be prepared by the reaction of silver nitrate (AgNO₃) with sodium azide (NaN₃) in aqueous solution. The reaction is as follows:
- AgNO₃ + NaN₃ → AgN₃ + NaNO₃
The silver azide precipitates out of the solution as a white solid, which can be collected by filtration.
Applications[edit | edit source]
Due to its sensitivity and explosive nature, silver azide is used in small quantities in detonators and as a primary explosive in various pyrotechnic devices. It is valued for its ability to initiate secondary explosives, which are less sensitive but more powerful.
Safety and Handling[edit | edit source]
Silver azide is extremely sensitive to mechanical shock, friction, and heat. It should be handled with great care, using appropriate safety equipment and protocols. Storage of silver azide requires conditions that minimize the risk of accidental detonation.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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