Hydrazine
Hydrazine, also known as diazine, is a chemical compound. It is composed of nitrogen and hydrogen ions. Its chemical formula is N2H4. It contains hydrogen in its +1 and nitrogen in its -2 oxidation state.
Properties
It is a colorless liquid. It smells like ammonia, but it is more reactive than ammonia. It is a strong reducing agent. It is explosive. It can mix with water. It is a base similar to ammonia.
Preparation
It is made by reacting sodium hypochlorite with liquid (not household) ammonia. If it is reacted with household ammonia, toxic fumes will be released. It can be made by reacting urea with sodium hypochlorite.
Uses
It is used to make foam. It is also used in rocket fuels. It can be used in fuel cells. It is used to make sodium azide by reacting sodium amide with sodium nitrite.
Hydrazine Media
Fluconazole, synthesized using hydrazine, is an antifungal medication.
Anhydrous (pure, not in solution) hydrazine being loaded into the MESSENGER space probe. The technician is wearing a safety suit.