Nitrogen is essential because it is a vital element for plant growth. It is a key component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins necessary for plant development. Nitrogen is also part of chlorophyll, the molecule responsible for photosynthesis, enabling plants to convert sunlight into energy. Without sufficient nitrogen, plants have less energy to grow, resulting in weakened crops and lower yields. Furthermore, nitrogen is crucial for the synthesis of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, which carry genetic information essential for all living organisms. Proper management of nitrogen in agriculture through fertilization helps ensure optimal plant nutrition and crop quality while minimizing environmental losses.
