What does the NO3- chemical formula represent?

The chemical formula NO3- represents nitrate, which is an anion composed of one nitrogen atom (N) centrally located and surrounded by three oxygen atoms (O) in a trigonal planar arrangement. The negative charge indicates that it is an anion, meaning it carries a net negative charge due to an extra electron. This structure is commonly found in various chemical compounds, such as fertilizers, where nitrate serves as a significant nutrient for plants.

The nitrate ion plays an essential role in biological and ecological processes, particularly in the nitrogen cycle, where it is a crucial source of nitrogen for living organisms. Additionally, understanding the properties and reactions of nitrate helps in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, and chemistry.