Chemistry Regents Practice Test 2025 - Free Chemistry Regents Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary purpose of the Haber process is to synthesize ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen gases. This chemical reaction is critically important in agricultural and industrial applications because ammonia (NH₃) is a key precursor for the production of various nitrogenous fertilizers. The process involves combining nitrogen gas (N₂) from the atmosphere and hydrogen gas (H₂) under high pressure and temperature, in the presence of an iron catalyst, to form ammonia. This synthesized ammonia can then be further processed to create ammonium nitrate, urea, and other nitrogen-based fertilizers, which are essential for enhancing soil fertility and boosting crop yields.

The Haber process revolutionized agricultural practices by providing a reliable and efficient means of obtaining ammonia, which was previously sourced from natural deposits or biological processes at a much lower scale. This development has had a significant impact on food production globally, facilitating the ability to support a growing population.