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 fixation, ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification, allowing nitrogen to be used by living organisms.

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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 nitrogen gas (N2) is not in a form that they can absorb or utilize. They require nitrogen to be converted into ammonia or nitrates.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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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.

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What role do nitrogen-fixing bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which can then be used by plants to synthesize proteins and nucleic acids.

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What is ammonification?

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

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What is nitrification?

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Nitrification is the process by which ammonia is oxidized to nitrites and then to nitrates by bacteria in the soil, making nitrogen available to plants.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which nitrates are reduced to nitrogen gas, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere and completing the nitrogen cycle.

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How do animals obtain nitrogen?

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Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals that contain nitrogen in their proteins.

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What are the main forms of nitrogen that plants can absorb?

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Plants can absorb nitrogen primarily in the form of nitrates (NO3-) and ammonium (NH4+).

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What is the significance of the nitrogen cycle for ecosystems?

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The nitrogen cycle is crucial for ecosystems as it ensures the availability of nitrogen, an essential nutrient for the growth and development of all living organisms.