Which element is found in cells at about 12% content?

The element found in cells at approximately 12% content is nitrogen. Nitrogen is a crucial component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. It is also a key part of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, contributing to the genetic material of organisms. The presence of nitrogen in these essential biomolecules underscores its importance in cellular structure and function.

In biological systems, nitrogen is primarily obtained through the environment, typically as part of the nitrogen cycle, and is incorporated into organic compounds. This high percentage in cellular composition reflects its vital role in growth, reproduction, and overall cellular metabolism. This is why nitrogen is recognized as one of the major elements essential for life, alongside carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are present in varying proportions but do not reach the same percentage as nitrogen in most cells.