Plants obtain nitrogen from soil as $NO_3^-$ (nitrate), $NH_4^+$ (ammonium) and $NO_2^-$ (nitrite) ions. Nitrate and nitrite are reduced to ammonium state which is then incorporated into amino acids, proteins and other organic substances.
The naturally occurring inorganic nutrient found in the soil and food that is necessary for the proper functioning of animal and plant bodies is defined as nutrition. Minerals are vital elements essential for the body.