nitrogen
Definition
Nitrogen is a chemical element with the symbol N and atomic number 7. It is a non-metal that is the most abundant element in the Earth's atmosphere, making up about 78% of the air we breathe. Nitrogen is also the fourth most abundant element in the universe.
Nitrogen is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is not very reactive. This means that it does not easily combine with other elements. However, nitrogen can react with other elements under certain conditions, such as high temperatures or high pressures.
Nitrogen is important for life on Earth. Plants need nitrogen to make proteins, which are essential for growth and development. Animals get nitrogen from the plants they eat.
Nitrogen is also used in many industrial processes, such as the production of fertilisers, plastics, and explosives.
Nitrogen is a vital element for life on Earth. It is important to understand the properties of nitrogen and how it is used in our world.
How can the word be used?
Nitrogen is the most abundant element in the Earth's atmosphere, making up about 78% of the air.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A chemical element with the symbol N and atomic number 7.
Adjective: Relating to nitrogen.
Etymology
The word "nitrogen" comes from the French word "nitrogène," which was coined in 1790 by Jean-Antoine-Claude Chaptal. Chaptal derived the word from the Greek words "nitron" (nitre) and "genēs" (forming).
The word "nitrogen" was first used in English in 1794. It was used to describe the element that was found in nitric acid and nitre.
Question
What is nitrogen and what does it help to make?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the role of nitrogen in the environment and its significance for living organisms.
Answer:
Nitrogen is a vital element in the environment, playing a crucial role in various biological processes that sustain life. It is an essential component of proteins, DNA, and other organic molecules that makeup living organisms. Nitrogen gas (N2) makes up about 78% of Earth's atmosphere, but most organisms cannot directly use atmospheric nitrogen in this form. Instead, they rely on nitrogen compounds like nitrates and ammonia.
In the nitrogen cycle, various processes transform nitrogen compounds into different forms. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which plants can use. This ammonia is further converted into nitrate ions (NO3-) through nitrification, making it available for plant uptake. Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals.
The availability of nitrogen influences the growth and health of ecosystems. For example, nitrogen fertilisers are used in agriculture to enhance plant growth and increase crop yields. However, excessive nitrogen runoff from agriculture or industrial activities can lead to water pollution, causing harmful algal blooms and disrupting aquatic ecosystems.