What does the formula NH3 represent in chemistry?

The formula NH3 represents ammonia, a compound consisting of one nitrogen atom (N) bonded to three hydrogen atoms (H). Ammonia is a colorless gas with a distinct, pungent smell and is commonly used in fertilizers, cleaning products, and as a building block for the synthesis of various nitrogen-containing compounds.

Understanding chemical formulas is essential as they provide information about the composition and structure of substances. In the case of NH3, the presence of three hydrogen atoms indicates its distinct characteristics and applications. It is crucial to differentiate ammonia from other compounds with similar names or components, as this plays an important role in various fields, including agriculture, chemistry, and environmental science.