Nitrogen Cycle

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, and denitrification.

Front

How do plants obtain nitrogen?

Back

Plants get the nitrogen they need from the soil or water in which they live.

Front

What percentage of the atmosphere is nitrogen gas?

Back

78% of the atmosphere is composed of nitrogen gas.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of combining nitrogen gas with other elements to create usable nitrogen compounds for plants.

Front

What role do denitrifying bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Denitrifying bacteria convert fixed nitrogen back into nitrogen gas, releasing it back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the importance of nitrogen for living organisms?

Back

Nitrogen is essential for the production of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which are vital for all living organisms.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which ammonia is converted into nitrites and then into nitrates, which plants can absorb.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil in the form of ammonia.

Front

What is the difference between fixed nitrogen and atmospheric nitrogen?

Back

Fixed nitrogen is nitrogen that has been converted into a usable form for plants, while atmospheric nitrogen is in its gaseous form (N2) and is not directly usable by most organisms.

Front

How do animals obtain nitrogen?

Back

Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals that contain nitrogen compounds.