What is the ratio by mass of nitrogen and hydrogen in ammonia?

14 : 3

The correct answer isoption 2. 14 : 3

The chemical formula of ammonia is NH₃, which means one nitrogen atom is bonded to three hydrogen atoms. To determine the ratio by mass of nitrogen to hydrogen in ammonia, we look at the molar masses of nitrogen (N) and hydrogen (H).

1. Molar mass of nitrogen (N): Approximately 14.01 g/mol
2. Molar mass of hydrogen (H): Approximately 1.01 g/mol

Now, considering the molecular formula NH₃:

Nitrogen contributes 14.01 g/mol to the molar mass.

Hydrogen contributes 3 atoms * 1.01 g/mol each = 3.03 g/mol to the molar mass.

So, the total molar mass of ammonia is \(14.01 + 3.03 = 17.04\) g/mol.

Now, to find the ratio by mass:

The mass contributed by nitrogen is 14.01 g.

The mass contributed by hydrogen is 3.03 g.

The ratio by mass of nitrogen to hydrogen is \( \frac{14.01}{3.03} \).

Simplifying, we get a ratio close to 14 : 3. Therefore, the correct option is 2. 14 : 3.