The nitrogen atom is an active non-metal, but why is this not seen in molecular nitrogen?

The nitrogen molecule (N2) consists of two atoms that are linked through a triple bond – a covalent non-polar bond. This is why the nitrogen molecule is incredibly strong. The activity of atomic nitrogen is explained by the fact that there are three unpaired electrons in the outer orbit. Therefore, even at ordinary temperatures, it reacts with sulfur (S), phosphorus (P), arsenic (As), as well as various metals.