What is a major reservoir for ammonia?

One major reservoir for ammonia in the environment is the atmosphere. Ammonia is a gas that is naturally present in the Earth's atmosphere, typically at low concentrations. It is produced by both natural processes, such as the decomposition of organic matter, and human activities, such as agriculture and industrial processes.

Ammonia in the atmosphere can be transported over long distances before being removed by rainfall or other processes. It can also react with other chemicals in the atmosphere to form particulate matter, which can have implications for air quality and human health.

In addition to the atmosphere, ammonia can also be found in water bodies, soil, and living organisms. In water bodies, ammonia can be present as either free ammonia (NH3) or ammonium ion (NH4+), depending on the pH of the water. High levels of ammonia in water can be toxic to aquatic organisms and can lead to eutrophication, a process where excessive nutrient levels cause algal blooms and oxygen depletion.

Overall, understanding the sources, fate, and effects of ammonia in different environmental reservoirs is important for managing and mitigating its potential impacts on ecosystems and human health.