What is reactive nitrogen?

Reactive nitrogen (Nr) includes all forms of nitrogen that are biologically, photochemically, and radiatively active.  Compounds of nitrogen that are reactive include the following: nitrous oxide (N₂ O), nitrate (NO₃ ^-), nitrite (NO₂ ^-), ammonia (NH₃), and ammonium (NH₄ ⁺). Reactive forms of nitrogen are those capable of cascading through the environment and causing an impact through smog, acid rain, biodiversity loss, etc. 

The non-reactive form of nitrogen is N₂  and makes up about 80% of our atmosphere.  This form of nitrogen does not contribute to the environmental impacts noted above. 

Unless otherwise noted, the term “nitrogen” or “N” on the N-Print website refers to “reactive nitrogen” – not its non-reactive diatomic form.