• Chemical formula: NH₄NO₃.

  • It is widely used as a nitrogen fertiliser.

  • It is also an important ingredient in commercial explosives.

  • Pure ammonium nitrate is classified as an oxidising agent (Class 5.1) under UN dangerous-goods classification.

  • In India, ammonium nitrate is regulated under the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012.

  • Under Indian regulations, ammonium nitrate or mixtures containing more than 45% ammonium nitrate by weight are treated as explosives subject to specified conditions.

  • Importantly, ammonium nitrate does not simply explode by itself under ordinary conditions; explosive mixtures and appropriate initiation conditions are involved.

Key Pointers

  • Formula: NH₄NO₃

  • Uses: Fertiliser + commercial explosives

  • Nature: Oxidising agent

  • Indian regulation: Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012

  • UPSC angle: Chemistry + internal security + hazardous materials