The chemical symbol for the element nitrogen is 'N'. Nitrogen is a non-metal element found in group 15 of the periodic table. With an atomic number of 7, nitrogen is an essential component for all living organisms, as it is a key part of amino acids and nucleic acids, which are vital for life's biological processes. Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and is largely inert, meaning it does not readily react with other elements. It comprises about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere and plays a significant role in various industries, including fertilizers, explosives, and food preservation.