It is a gaseous element essential for life, composing approximately 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere by volume. It is represented by the symbol N and has an atomic number of 7. The element exists in nature primarily as a diatomic molecule, N2. A common example is its use in fertilizers to promote plant growth, where it is converted into usable forms like ammonia.
This element’s inert nature under standard conditions makes it valuable in various industrial applications. It is used as a coolant, in preserving food products by displacing oxygen, and in manufacturing explosives and other chemicals. Historically, its discovery is attributed to Daniel Rutherford in 1772, marking a significant step in understanding the composition of air.
