Describe the action of heat on the following compounds: `NH_(4)NO_(3)`

Answer

To describe the action of heat on ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃), we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Compound**:
The compound in question is ammonium nitrate, which has the chemical formula NH₄NO₃.

2. **Understand the Process**:
When ammonium nitrate is subjected to heat, it undergoes thermal decomposition. This means that the compound breaks down into simpler substances when heated.

3. **Write the Decomposition Reaction**:
The decomposition of ammonium nitrate can be represented by the following chemical equation:
\[ 2 \, NH_4NO_3 (s) \xrightarrow{\text{heat}} N_2O (g) + 2 \, H_2O (g) \]
In this reaction, ammonium nitrate decomposes to form nitrous oxide (N₂O) in the gaseous state and water vapor (H₂O) also in the gaseous state.

4. **Summarize the Products**:
The products of the thermal decomposition of ammonium nitrate are:
- Nitrous oxide (N₂O) - a gas
- Water vapor (H₂O) - also in gaseous form

5. **Conclusion**:
Therefore, the action of heat on ammonium nitrate results in its decomposition into nitrous oxide and water vapor.