Inorganic chemistry plays a very important role in industry because many industrial processes depend on inorganic compounds, metals, and catalysts. Here’s a explanation:
1. Fertilizers
- Provide essential nutrients for crops.
- Examples:
- Ammonium nitrate (NH₄NO₃) → nitrogen fertilizer
- Potassium sulfate (K₂SO₄) → potassium fertilizer
- Superphosphate (Ca(H₂PO₄)₂) → phosphorus fertilizer
2. Catalysts
- Speed up chemical reactions without being consumed.
- Examples:
- Platinum (Pt) → catalytic converters in cars
- Nickel (Ni) → hydrogenation of oils
- Vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) → sulfuric acid production
3. Pigments and Dyes
- Inorganic compounds give color to paints, ceramics, and plastics.
- Examples:
- Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) → white pigment
- Iron oxides (Fe₂O₃, Fe₃O₄) → red, brown, black pigments
4. Glass, Ceramics, and Refractories
- Inorganic compounds are used to make strong, heat-resistant materials.
- Examples: Silicates, aluminates, zirconia
5. Metallurgy and Alloys
- Inorganic chemistry helps in extracting metals and making alloys.
- Examples:
- Iron extraction from Fe₂O₃ (blast furnace)
- Copper extraction from Cu₂S
- Alloys like stainless steel (Fe + Cr + Ni)
6. Industrial Chemicals
- Many inorganic compounds are raw materials for other chemicals.
- Examples:
- Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) → fertilizer, detergent, battery acid
- Ammonia (NH₃) → fertilizers, explosives
- Sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) → glass and soap
7. Energy & Electronics
- Inorganic compounds are used in batteries, semiconductors, and superconductors.
- Examples: Lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries, silicon chips
In short:
Inorganic chemistry is crucial in industry for fertilizers, catalysts, pigments, glass, metallurgy, chemicals, and energy materials.