Chapter 18, Problem 108E

The salt ammonium nitrate can follow three modes of decomposition: (a) to HNO₃(g) and NH₃(g), (b) to N₂O(g) and H₂O(g), and (c) to N₂(g), O₂(g), and H₂O(g). Calculate $\Delta G_{\text{rxn}}^{°}$ for each mode of decomposition at 298 K. Explain in light of these results how it is still possible to use ammonium nitrate as a fertilizer and the precautions that should be taken when it is used.