Carbon & Nitrogen Cycles

Front

What is the process of nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen gas from the atmosphere is converted into ammonia or related compounds in soil, primarily by certain bacteria. This process allows plants to absorb nitrogen, which is essential for their growth.

Front

Why can't humans use nitrogen from the air?

Back

Humans cannot use nitrogen from the air because it is in a gaseous form (N2) that is not directly usable by most living organisms. Instead, nitrogen must be converted into a usable form, such as ammonia or nitrates, through processes like nitrogen fixation.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.

Front

Where do plants get carbon dioxide for photosynthesis?

Back

Plants get carbon dioxide for photosynthesis from the air, which they absorb through small openings in their leaves called stomata.

Front

What role does cellular respiration play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Cellular respiration is the process by which living organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. This carbon dioxide is then available for plants to use in photosynthesis, thus continuing the carbon cycle.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. They include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and water vapor, among others.

Front

What is denitrification?

Back

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrates in the soil back into nitrogen gas (N2), releasing it into the atmosphere. This process is essential for completing the nitrogen cycle.

Front

What is the significance of water vapor in the atmosphere?

Back

Water vapor is a significant greenhouse gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect, helping to regulate the Earth's temperature by trapping heat.

Front

How do plants absorb nitrogen from the soil?

Back

Plants absorb nitrogen from the soil primarily in the form of nitrates or ammonium through their roots, which are then used to synthesize proteins and nucleic acids.

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the series of processes by which nitrogen and its compounds are interconverted in the environment and in living organisms, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification.