An oxide of an alkaline earth metal , which produces an alkaline solution in reaction with water. Compare with hydrocarbon and alkene . Alkane names end with -ane . Pure NH 3 is a colorless gas with a sharp, characteristic odor. It is easily liquified by pressure, and is very soluble in water.
Ammonia acts as a weak base .
Compare with hydrate . A compound with all water removed, especially water of hydration. Compare with cation . An anion is a negatively charged ion. Nonmetals typically form anions.