Nitrogen becomes artificial fertilizer
In the Haber-Bosch process nitrogen is extracted from the air to form ammonia. This is an important stage in the production of artificial fertilizers and the process won Fritz Haber the 1918 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Even though the chemical process has been known for a long time, thanks to Ertl’s work we now understand how it functions. The reaction can only take place on a catalytic surface of iron. The surface provides support to enable the atoms in the nitrogen molecules to release their bonds so that they can bind to hydrogen and form ammonia. Ertl has studied the reaction with the help of several different spectroscopic methods and put the different results together to form the complete picture. |
Nobel Prizes and laureates
Eleven laureates were awarded a Nobel Prize in 2023, for achievements that have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind. Their work and discoveries range from effective mRNA vaccines and attosecond physics to fighting against the oppression of women.
See them all presented here.
See them all presented here.
Explore prizes and laureates
Look for popular awards and laureates in different fields, and discover the history of the Nobel Prize.