Nitrogen is the fifth most abundant element in the universe and makes up 80% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is a colorless and odorless gas that does not burn and is slightly soluble. Nitrogen is essential for life and is a component of proteins, amino acids, and fertilizers. It is widely used to make ammonia and in food freezing and rocket fuel production.
The Properties ofNitrogen Nitrogen was discovered by Daniel Rutherford in 1772. Fifth Most Abundant element in the Universe. Largest use is Ammonia. Atomic Number 7 Atomic Symbol N Atomic Weight 14.00674 Atomic Radius 71 pm
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Properties continued… MeltingPoint -210.0˚ Celsius Boiling Point -195.79˚ Celsius Oxidation States - 3, 5 Does NOT Burn Not Combustible Slightly Soluble
Nitrogen Is aPart of … Protein Amino Acids Fertilizers Important in plant growth Necessary in crop production Explosives Gun powder Rocket Fuels Cyanides Laughing Gas Mustard Gas Alkaloids The Earth’s Atmosphere 80% is nitrogen, Less than 20% is oxygen Liquid nitrogen Coolants Nitrogen Generators
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Nitrogen in FoodsUsed in freezing foods Liquid Nitrogen Plays a role in food digestion and growth Part of the Body 3% Of Human Body Weight
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Nitrogen Compounds Ammonia= NH 3 One Nitrogen Atom Three Hydrogen Atoms Nitric Acid = NHO 3 One Nitrogen Atom One Hydrogen Atom Three Oxygen Atoms
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Works Cited (2006). Primer On Nitrogen. Retrieved November 13, 2008, from MLB The Ecosystems Center Web site: http://ecosystems.mbl.edu/Research/Clue/nitrogen.html Trautmann, Nancy, M Nitrogen: The Essential Nutrient. Retrieved November 13, 2008, from Natural Resources: Cornell Cooperative Extension Web site: http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu/facts-slides-self/facts/nit-el-grw89.html Helmenstine, Anne Marie 10 Nitrogen Facts. Retrieved November 16, 2008, from About.com:Chemistry Web site: www.chemistry.about.com/od/elementfacts/nitrogenfacts.htm Facts About Nitrogen. Retrieved November 14, 2008, from Facts About Nitrogen Web site: http://www.facts-about.org.uk/science-elements-nitrogen.htm