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This is a fantastic experiment.
I have used it exclusively with my A-Level classes as a lot of Ammonia is given off. The number of molecules formed is many times more than the reactants and the states of matter are from solid to liquids and gases. A massive increase in entropy. The experiment arouses much cognitive conflict as most students cannot name another example of when two solids react together. The freezing to the mat is a good way of showing how endothermic the reaction is.
If you don’t do it in a fume cupboard you have another talking point. As everyone’s heart speeds up and they have an acute myocardial infraction you can talk about the use of ammonia in smelling salts to speed up your heart and “bring people around”.
If you have any other ideas or comments regarding this reaction please email me and I will add them here.
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