Explainer: Why is ammonium nitrate so volatile?

The video discusses the Beirut explosion caused by ammonium nitrate stored in a warehouse. It highlights the impact, including casualties and ongoing rescue operations. The properties and uses of ammonium nitrate are explained, emphasizing its role in fertilizers and explosives. The chemical's behavior under high temperatures, leading to self-combustion and explosions, is also covered.

What was the reported cause of the explosion in Beirut on August 4th?

• A natural gas leak

• A stockpile of ammonium nitrate

• An electrical fault

• A terrorist attack

How many people were reported injured in the Beirut explosion according to Al Jazeera?

• 5000

• 7000

• 1000

• 3000

In what form is ammonium nitrate typically produced?

• Powder

• Prills

• Gas

• Liquid

What role does ammonium nitrate play in combustion under normal conditions?

• It acts as a fuel

• It acts as an oxygen source

• It acts as a stabilizer

• It acts as a coolant

What happens to ammonium nitrate at high temperatures?

• It solidifies into a crystal

• It breaks down into nitrogen oxides and water vapor

• It evaporates into a gas

• It melts into a liquid