Dusíkové

Dusíkové is a Czech term used to describe nitrogen or nitrogen-containing substances. In chemistry, dusíkové sloučeniny are compounds that contain nitrogen in their molecules. The element dusík (nitrogen) has the symbol N and atomic number 7. It is the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere, making up about 78% by volume. At room temperature, nitrogen predominantly exists as a diatomic molecule, N2, with a strong triple bond, which makes N2 relatively inert under ambient conditions. Nitrogen forms a wide range of compounds with oxidation states from -3 (as in ammonia) to +5 (as in nitrates).

Natural isotopes are 14N and 15N, with 14N comprising the majority of natural nitrogen.

Biological and ecological role: Nitrogen is essential for all living organisms as a constituent of amino acids, nucleic acids, and many cofactors. In the environment, the nitrogen cycle converts atmospheric N2 into reactive forms through fixation, followed by nitrification, assimilation by plants, and return to the atmosphere via denitrification.

Industrial relevance: The most important nitrogen-containing substances include ammonia (NH3), ammonium salts, nitric acid (HNO3), and nitrates used for fertilizers. The Haber-Bosch process synthesizes ammonia from N2 and hydrogen. The Ostwald process converts ammonia to nitric acid. Organonitrogen compounds such as amines, amides, nitriles, nitro compounds, and heterocycles are widespread in chemistry and industry.

Environmental and health aspects: Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) contribute to air pollution and acid rain; excess nitrogen in ecosystems can cause eutrophication. Reactive nitrogen compounds require careful handling due to toxicity and reactivity.