Nitrogen

Nitrogen is a chemical element with the symbol N and atomic number 7. It is a nonmetal and makes up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere. Nitrogen is an essential component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, and nucleic acids, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. It is also a critical nutrient for plants and is often a limiting factor in agricultural productivity.

Key Facts about Nitrogen:

• Atomic Number: 7
• Symbol: N
• Atomic Mass: 14.007 u
• Phase at Room Temperature: Gas
• Boiling Point: -195.79°C
• Melting Point: -210.01°C

Properties of Nitrogen:

• Colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas
• Relatively inert under normal conditions
• Does not support combustion, which makes it useful for preserving food and preventing oxidation
• Forms numerous compounds, including ammonia (NH3), nitric acid (HNO3), and various organic compounds

Uses of Nitrogen:

• Used in the production of ammonia, which is a key component of fertilizers
• Used in the food industry to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage
• Used in the electronics industry for manufacturing semiconductors and as a coolant for superconducting materials
• Used in the production of nitric acid, which is a key component of explosives and fertilizers
• Used in the pharmaceutical industry for packaging and storing drugs

Environmental Impact:

Nitrogen compounds, such as nitrates and nitrites, can leach into water systems and cause eutrophication, leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion in aquatic ecosystems.

Study Guide for Nitrogen:

1. What is the atomic number of nitrogen? 7
2. What is the symbol for nitrogen? N
3. What percentage of Earth's atmosphere is made up of nitrogen? 78%
4. What are the key components of proteins and nucleic acids that contain nitrogen? Amino acids and nucleic acids
5. Why is nitrogen important for plant growth? It is an essential nutrient for plant growth and is a key component of chlorophyll.