Ammonium perchlorate

Ammonium perchlorate is a chemical compound made of ammonium (a charged nitrogen-hydrogen group) and perchlorate (a chlorine and oxygen group). It appears as a white crystalline solid commonly used as an oxidizer in rocket propellants because it supplies the oxygen needed for combustion. When heated or ignited, it decomposes rapidly, releasing gases like nitrogen, water vapor, and oxygen, which generate thrust to propel rockets. Due to its stability and high oxygen content, ammonium perchlorate is essential in space missions, but it must be handled carefully because it is reactive and potentially hazardous.