nitrogenase

Nitrogenase is an enzyme found in certain bacteria that enables them to convert atmospheric nitrogen gas (N₂) into a form plants can use, like ammonia. This process, called nitrogen fixation, is essential because most organisms can't directly use nitrogen gas. Nitrogenase uses energy from the bacteria’s metabolism and requires special molecules containing iron and molybdenum to break the strong triple bond in N₂. This biological process is key to maintaining the nitrogen cycle, supporting plant growth, and ultimately, all life on Earth.