Nitrogen fixation

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen is taken from its relatively inert molecular form (N₂) in the atmosphere and converted into nitrogen compounds useful for other chemical processes (eg ammonia and [nitrogen dioxide]?).

Nitrogen fixation is performed naturally by certain types of anaerobic? bacteria. Legume?s such as clover? contain symbiotic? bacteria of this type within nodules in their root systems, producing nitrogen compounds that help to fertilize the soil.

Nitrogen can also be artificially fixed for use as fertilizer or in other industrial processes. The most popular method is by the Haber process.