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Biology

Catalytic Mechanisms of Nitrogenase: How Nature Fixes Atmospheric Nitrogen

Quick fact

Nitrogenase enzymes consume 16 molecules of ATP and 8 electrons to convert one molecule of nitrogen gas into two molecules of ammonia, operating at normal temperature and pressure—a feat that industrial chemistry only achieves at 400°C and 200 atmospheres.

Why this is interesting

Every breath you take is 78% nitrogen gas, yet you can't use it. How do plants get the nitrogen they need to grow? The answer lies in a molecular machine that turns inert gas into life-giving ammonia.