Nitrogen Cycle

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process through which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, circulating through the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms.

Front

What is the main reservoir of nitrogen?

Back

The main reservoir of nitrogen is the atmosphere.

Front

What is the formula for atmospheric nitrogen?

Back

The formula for atmospheric nitrogen is N₂.

Front

What role do bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Bacteria break down dead plants and animals, releasing nitrogen back into the atmosphere.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

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

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What is denitrification?

Back

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

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃) by certain bacteria and plants.

Front

What are legumes and their role in the nitrogen cycle?

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Legumes are plants that have symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, helping to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

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

Front

How do plants utilize nitrogen?

Back

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