Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

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The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including atmospheric nitrogen, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates, and is essential for life on Earth.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3), which can be used by plants.

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What role do plants play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Plants absorb nitrates from the soil, which they use to create proteins and other essential compounds.

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What is nitrification?

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Nitrification is the biological process that converts ammonia into nitrites (NO2-) and then into nitrates (NO3-), which are usable forms of nitrogen for plants.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are converted back into nitrogen gas (N2) and released into the atmosphere, completing the nitrogen cycle.

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What is eutrophication?

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Eutrophication is the process by which water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen.

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Why can't plants and animals use nitrogen directly from the air?

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Plants and animals cannot use nitrogen directly from the air because it exists in a gaseous form (N2) that is not chemically reactive.

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What is the significance of ammonia in the nitrogen cycle?

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Ammonia is a key intermediate in the nitrogen cycle; it can be taken up by plants or further processed into nitrites and nitrates.

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How do animals contribute to the nitrogen cycle?

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Animals contribute to the nitrogen cycle by consuming plants and excreting waste, which contains nitrogen in forms that can be used by plants.

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What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

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