Nitrogen Compounds
Nitrogen is the seventh most abundant element in the universe and can be found in every life form. As an odorless, colorless, and tasteless element, nitrogen is an essential component of countless organic and inorganic compounds. Nitrogen is especially relevant in organic chemistry because it is a significant part of all amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Nitrogen can be found in many compounds, but some of the most important nitrogen compounds are nitrates and nitrites.
Nitrates are compounds made up of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms (NO3). They are highly soluble in water and can be found in fertilizers and explosives, as well as food sources like beets and spinach. They are created through nitrification, a two-step process where certain types of bacteria transform ammonia-based compounds into nitrite and then nitrate. Nitrates are an important part of the nitrogen cycle, the biogeochemical process where nitrogen is converted into various forms.
The process of nitrification can also create nitrites (NO2); these compounds are made of one nitrogen and two oxygen atoms. Just like nitrates, nitrites are transformed from ammonia compounds as part of the nitrogen cycle. Nitrites also contribute to the development of nitrate compounds when dissolved into water. Nitrites can be found in soil and water and can arise from decomposing organic matter, natural weathering processes, and man-made sources like agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial waste.
Nitrogen compounds like nitrates and nitrites are important for both natural and man-made processes. Nitrates are necessary for agriculture, since they are a great source of nitrogen for crops. Nitrates can also be found in soil, where they are important for the growth of beneficial bacteria. Nitrite is a key component in preserving food. Since it can kill or suppress some types of bacteria, nitrite is used to cure and preserve meats like bacon and hot dogs. Other nitrogen compounds are important sources of energy, often found in natural gas or gasoline.
Nitrogen compounds are an unavoidable part of the environment. While some of these compounds are necessary for life, others can be hazardous. Nitrates and nitrites are currently overabundant in water supplies due to agricultural runoff, industrial wastes, and sewage. This can have dangerous consequences, as nitrates and nitrites can cause food poisoning, infant methemoglobinemia, and other health problems.
Nitrogen compounds are a necessary and often beneficial part of the environment. Because of this, people need to be cautious when using and disposing of nitrogen compounds, as an overabundance is dangerous to both humans and the environment. Different methods, such as decreasing agricultural runoff, installing advanced wastewater treatment equipment, or using nitrate-absorbing filter materials can help prevent excessive levels of nitrogen compounds in our environment.
