Urea Formula Molecular Mass And Density

Urea Properties:

Molecular Formula: CH₄N₂O

Molecular Mass: 60.06 g/mol

Density: 1.32 g/cm³

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Density:

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1. What Is Urea?

Urea, also known as carbamide, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂. It is the main nitrogen-containing substance in the urine of mammals and is a colorless, odorless solid, highly soluble in water, and practically non-toxic.

2. Molecular Structure And Properties

Urea's molecular structure consists of a carbonyl group (C=O) attached to two amine groups (-NH₂). Key molecular properties include:

Molecular Formula: CH₄N₂O or CO(NH₂)₂

Molecular Mass: 60.06 g/mol

Density: 1.32 g/cm³

Structural Features:

Carbonyl group provides polarity
Two amine groups allow for hydrogen bonding
Tetrahedral geometry around carbon atom
Planar structure due to resonance

3. Physical And Chemical Properties

Physical Properties: White crystalline solid, melting point 133°C, boiling point (decomposes), soluble in water (1079 g/L at 20°C), density 1.32 g/cm³.

Chemical Properties: Weak base, hydrolyzes slowly in water to ammonia and carbon dioxide, forms complexes with metals, reacts with aldehydes to form urea-formaldehyde resins.

4. Applications Of Urea

Major Uses: Fertilizers (46% nitrogen content), resin production (urea-formaldehyde), animal feed additive, pharmaceutical applications, deicing agent, and in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) for diesel engines.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is urea's molecular mass 60.06 g/mol?
A: The molecular mass is calculated as: Carbon (12.01) + Oxygen (16.00) + Nitrogen (14.01×2) + Hydrogen (1.008×4) = 60.06 g/mol.

Q2: What determines urea's density of 1.32 g/cm³?
A: The density is determined by the crystal packing efficiency, molecular weight, and intermolecular forces in the solid state.

Q3: How is urea produced industrially?
A: Urea is produced from ammonia and carbon dioxide under high pressure (140-200 bar) and temperature (180-210°C) in the Bosch-Meiser urea process.

Q4: What is the biological significance of urea?
A: Urea is the primary nitrogenous waste product of protein metabolism in mammals and is excreted in urine. It helps maintain osmotic balance.

Q5: Can urea density change with temperature?
A: Yes, like most substances, urea's density decreases with increasing temperature due to thermal expansion of the crystal lattice.