The element essential for the formation of proteins is nitrogen. Nitrogen is a key component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. In living organisms, proteins serve numerous essential functions, including serving as enzymes, hormones, and structural components of cells. Although nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere, it exists primarily in a form that organisms cannot directly use. Through processes like nitrogen fixation, certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can absorb. Consequently, when animals consume plants and incorporate these proteins into their own bodies, nitrogen becomes vital for their growth and maintenance.