This experiment follows up on the previously described detection of ammonia ("Detection of nitrogen" experiment). Should this not yet have been taught, then a demonstration experiment showing the formation of ammonium chloride from hydrogen chloride and ammonia should first be carried out. Not all organic compounds which contain nitrogen decompose under the formation of ammonia, but only those which contain nitrogen in basic form. These include the majority of the common organic nitrogen compounds.

Learning objectives

• Many organic compounds contain (basic) nitrogen.
• Nitrogen can be detected as ammonia when such substances are decomposed by strong bases.

Benefits

• Easy teaching and efficient learning by using interactive experimentation PHYWE-Software
• Experiment is part of a complete solution set with experiments for the topic Organic Chemistry matched with international curriculum: all topics are covered