Nitrogen Cycle #2

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process in which nitrogen circulates and is recycled in the environment, involving various stages such as nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.

Front

How do animals obtain nitrogen?

Back

Animals obtain nitrogen from the food they eat, which contains proteins and nucleic acids.

Front

What is the formula for atmospheric nitrogen?

Back

The formula for atmospheric nitrogen is N₂.

Front

What do plants absorb from the soil?

Back

Plants absorb nitrates from the soil, which they use to synthesize proteins and nucleic acids.

Front

Describe a correct path that nitrogen could take in the nitrogen cycle.

Back

A correct path that nitrogen could take is: air -> bacteria -> plants -> animals.

Front

What role do nitrogen-fixing bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃), making nitrogen available to plants.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which ammonia (NH₃) is converted into nitrites (NO₂⁻) and then into nitrates (NO₃⁻) by bacteria.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process of converting organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste into ammonia (NH₃) by decomposers.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which nitrates (NO₃⁻) are converted back into nitrogen gas (N₂) by bacteria, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

Front

Why is the nitrogen cycle important for ecosystems?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is important for ecosystems because it ensures the availability of nitrogen, which is essential for the growth of plants and the overall functioning of food webs.