Step 1: Molecular Formula of Ammonia:
Ammonia is represented as NH$_3$. This means:
1 atom of nitrogen (N).
3 atoms of hydrogen (H).
Step 2: Ratio:
Thus, the ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen is:
\[
N : H = 1 : 3
\]
Step 3: Importance:
Ammonia is widely used in fertilizers (urea, ammonium nitrate).
It plays a major role in the nitrogen cycle in nature.
The ratio 1 : 3 also shows the covalent bonding between N and three H atoms.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The ratio of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms in NH$_3$ is 1 : 3.