How to combine molecules?

Question

Let's say I want to create an Esbit tablet, so I would take CH2O + NH3. But how exactly would I put those together? Put them in a pot and stir? Elevate the temperature? How do I know what method to use?

Answer 1

Put 10 mL 40% aqueous CH2O in a watch glass with 3 mL concentrated NH4OH. Evaporate to dryness on a steam bath. Look in a lab supply catalog for a picture of a steam bath. You don't actually have to flow steam into it. You can fill it half full of water and boil on a stove.

Answer 2

It depends on what elements/compounds/molecules involved are

All the elements / compounds have different properties and so react in different ways

with some elements you can mix them together in a pot and they will instantly bond to form a new molecule

with others a catalyst is required e.g. HEAT
or certain conditions are required e.g. in an atmosphere of argon