| Origin of Name |
From the Greek words nitron genes. meaning forming native soda. |
| Date and Place of Discovery |
In 1772 in Scotland |
| Discovered by |
Daniel Rutherford |
| Common Compounds |
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| Interesting facts |
- Compounds of nitrogen were known in the middle ages.
- It makes up about 78.1% of our atmosphere.
- It is estimated to be the 7th most abundant chemical element in our universe.
- Nitrogen is an essential part of amino and nucleic acids, which are necessary for life.
- Nitrogen gas is created through the distillation of liquid or gaseous air.
- Commercial nitrogen is a byproduct created in the steelmaking process.
- It is less expensive than argon.
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| Common Uses |
- Preserves freshness in bulk foods
- Incandescent light bulbs
- Electronic parts (transistors, diodes, integrated circuits)
- Protects liquid explosives during transportation
- Military aircraft fuel systems
- Tires for aircraft and automobiles
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