Nitrogen Cycle + Eutrophication

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms in the environment. It involves processes such as nitrogen fixation, nitrification, ammonification, and denitrification.

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What is ammonification?

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Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead plants and animals is converted into ammonia by bacteria and fungi.

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What is nitrification?

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Nitrification is the process by which ammonia is converted into nitrites and then into nitrates by bacteria in the soil.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form that plants can absorb, primarily through the action of certain bacteria.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are converted back into nitrogen gas (N2) by bacteria, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

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What causes eutrophication?

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Eutrophication is caused by excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, building up in water bodies, leading to excessive growth of algae.

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What is the impact of eutrophication on aquatic life?

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Eutrophication can lead to oxygen depletion in water bodies, causing fish and other aquatic organisms to die due to lack of oxygen.

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How do fertilizers contribute to eutrophication?

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Fertilizers contain high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can run off into water bodies, causing nutrient overload and promoting eutrophication.

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What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

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Bacteria play crucial roles in the nitrogen cycle by facilitating processes such as nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification.

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What happens to plants during eutrophication?

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During eutrophication, plants may initially experience rapid growth due to excess nutrients, but eventually, they may die due to lack of sunlight as algae blooms block light.