Nitriitin

Nitriitin is a chemical compound. It is an ion with the chemical formula NO2-. The nitriitin ion is a resonance structure, meaning its electrons are delocalized between the nitrogen and oxygen atoms. This gives it a planar structure. Nitriitin is a common species found in various chemical and biological processes.

In chemistry, nitriitin salts are often soluble in water. These salts are typically formed from reactions between nitriitin acid and bases. Nitriitin is also an intermediate in the oxidation of ammonia to nitrate, a process that occurs in the nitrogen cycle in soil and water. This microbial transformation is crucial for nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

In biological systems, nitriitin plays a role in the metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds. It can be formed during the breakdown of amino acids. However, nitriitin can also be a concern due to its potential health effects. Ingested nitriitin can react with amines in the body to form nitrosamines, some of which are known carcinogens. For this reason, regulations often limit the amount of nitriitin allowed in food and drinking water. The presence of nitriitin in water can also contribute to eutrophication.