What chemical element does ‘N’ stand for in the periodic table?

Nitrogen

The correct answer is option 2. Nitrogen.

Nitrogen is the chemical element represented by the symbol 'N' in the periodic table. Here's an explanation of nitrogen:

1. Atomic Number and Symbol:  Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, meaning it has 7 protons in its nucleus. It is denoted by the symbol 'N' in the periodic table.

2. Properties: Nitrogen is a non-metal and is located in Group 15 (also known as the Nitrogen Group) of the periodic table. It is a diatomic molecule in its most abundant form, meaning it exists as \(N_2\) gas, where two nitrogen atoms are chemically bonded to each other.

3. Abundance:  Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere, constituting about 78% of the air we breathe. Despite its abundance, nitrogen in its molecular form \((N_2)\) is relatively unreactive under normal conditions.

4. Uses: Nitrogen is utilized in various industries and applications. Some common uses of nitrogen include:

• In the production of ammonia \((NH_3)\), which is a crucial component in fertilizers and various industrial processes.
• In food packaging and preservation to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
• In the manufacturing of electronics to create a protective atmosphere during soldering and welding processes.
• In the production of nitric acid \((HNO_3)\), which is used in the manufacturing of fertilizers, explosives, and various chemical products.

5. Biological Importance:  Nitrogen is essential for life as it is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), which are fundamental building blocks of living organisms. Plants absorb nitrogen from the soil in the form of nitrates and incorporate it into their proteins through the process of nitrogen fixation.

Overall, nitrogen plays a vital role in various aspects of chemistry, industry, biology, and the environment, making it an essential element in our daily lives.