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 in the environment, including the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms.

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What role do plants play in the nitrogen cycle?

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Plants absorb nitrogen from the soil in the form of nitrates and ammonium, which they use to synthesize proteins essential for growth.

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How do animals obtain nitrogen?

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Animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals that have already incorporated nitrogen into their bodies.

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What is nitrogen fixation?

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Nitrogen fixation is the process by which certain bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia or related compounds that plants can use.

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What is denitrification?

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Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrates back into nitrogen gas, returning it to the atmosphere and completing the nitrogen cycle.

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What is an algae bloom?

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An algae bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often caused by excess nutrients like nitrogen, leading to negative environmental impacts.

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What happens to the nitrogen cycle if bacteria are eliminated?

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If bacteria are eliminated, the nitrogen cycle would stop because bacteria are essential for processes like nitrogen fixation and denitrification.

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What are decomposers and their role in the nitrogen cycle?

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Decomposers break down dead organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil in forms that plants can use.

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What is the significance of proteins in the nitrogen cycle?

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Proteins are essential molecules made from nitrogen that are necessary for the growth and functioning of all living organisms.

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What is the impact of excess nitrogen in aquatic ecosystems?

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Excess nitrogen can lead to nutrient pollution, causing problems like algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life.