Nitrogen Cycle, Aquariums, Gulf Dead Zone & Corals

Front

What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification, allowing nitrogen to be reused in ecosystems.

Front

What role do nitrates play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Nitrates are a form of nitrogen that plants absorb from the soil, which is essential for their growth and development.

Front

What is the primary cause of the Gulf Dead Zone?

Back

The Gulf Dead Zone is primarily caused by excess nitrates from fertilizers that lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water.

Front

What organisms are responsible for denitrification?

Back

Denitrifying bacteria are responsible for denitrification, a process that converts nitrates back into nitrogen gas, releasing it into the atmosphere.

Front

How do fish contribute to the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Fish contribute to the nitrogen cycle through the excretion of ammonia, which can be converted into nitrates by bacteria.

Front

What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead plants and animals is converted into ammonia by decomposers.

Front

Define denitrification.

Back

Denitrification is the microbial process of reducing nitrates to nitrogen gas, thus returning nitrogen to the atmosphere.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is converted into ammonia (NH3) by certain bacteria, making it available for plant uptake.

Front

What are decomposers?

Back

Decomposers are organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

Explain the term 'eutrophication'.

Back

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