The reaction of ammonium carbonate ((NH4 )2 CO3 ) depends on the conditions. When heated, ammonium carbonate decomposes into ammonia gas (NH3 ), carbon dioxide (CO2 ), and water vapor (H2 O). The balanced chemical equation for this thermal decomposition is:
(NH4 )2 CO3 →2NH3 +CO2 +H2 O.
This reaction is often used in baking and other applications where the release of gases creates a leavening effect. The reaction is an example of a thermal decomposition, as heat breaks the compound into simpler gaseous components.