Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What does the term "anhydrous" mean in relation to ammonia?

1. With water

2. Without water

3. At a high temperature

4. In a gaseous state

The correct answer is: Without water

The term "anhydrous" specifically refers to a substance that does not contain any water. In the context of ammonia, anhydrous ammonia is ammonia that is free from water, which is important for various industrial and agricultural applications. The absence of water in anhydrous ammonia means it has a higher concentration of ammonia, making it more effective as a fertilizer and in other chemical processes. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields such as agriculture, where the management of ammonia in its anhydrous form can significantly impact crop yield and soil health. In contrast, "with water" clearly contradicts the definition of anhydrous, as it indicates the presence of water. The options related to "high temperature" and "gaseous state" do not relate directly to the meaning of anhydrous; they focus instead on physical states or conditions that don't address the core characteristic of being free from water.