nitrogen

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nitrogen (symbol N) Common, gaseous nonmetallic element of group V of the periodic table. Colourless and odourless, it is the major component of the atmosphere (78% by volume), from which it is extracted by fractional distillation of liquid air. It is necessary for life, being present in all plants and animals. English chemist Daniel Rutherford (1749–1819) isolated it in 1772. The main industrial use is in the Haber process. Nitrogen compounds are used in fertilizers, explosives, dyes, foods and drugs. The element is chemically inert. Properties: at.no. 7; r.a.m. 14.0067; r.d. 1.2506; m.p. −209.86°C (−345.75°F); b.p. −195.8°C (−320.4°F); most common isotope N14 (99.76%).

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Periodic Table of the Elements Nitrogen

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    Periodic Table of the Elements Nitrogen