Nitrogen Cycle

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including atmospheric nitrogen, nitrates, and ammonia, through biological and physical processes.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria in the soil convert nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen, allowing nitrogen to reenter the atmosphere.

Front

True or False: The nitrogen in the atmosphere is in a usable form for living things.

Back

False. The nitrogen in the atmosphere is not in a usable form and must be converted by bacteria or plants.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which bacteria convert ammonia into nitrates, which can be used by plants.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Decomposers, such as mushrooms, break down dead organisms and waste, returning nitrogen to the soil in the form of ammonia.

Front

True or False: Nitrates are passed from plants to animals when animals eat the plants or other animals.

Back

True. Nitrates are transferred through the food chain.

Front

What is fixation in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia by certain bacteria, making it available for plants.

Front

Name an example of a decomposer.

Back

Mushrooms are an example of a decomposer that helps break down dead organic matter.

Front

What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria play crucial roles in the nitrogen cycle, including fixation, nitrification, and denitrification.

Front

What is assimilation in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Assimilation is the process by which plants absorb nitrates from the soil and incorporate them into their tissues.