Nitrogen Cycle Overview

What is the process called by which nitrogen moves around in ecosystems?

• 
  

• 
  Carbon cycle

• Nitrogen cycle

• Water cycle

• Oxygen cycle

Explain why the nitrogen cycle is crucial for life on Earth.

• It helps in the formation of rocks.

• It is essential for the production of DNA, RNA, and proteins.

• It provides energy for photosynthesis.

• 
  It regulates the Earth's temperature.

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Which of the following molecules require nitrogen for their formation?

• Glucose

• DNA

• 
  Lipids

• 
  Starch

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Which of the following best describes the role of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

• They convert nitrogen gas into ammonia.

• They decompose organic matter.

• They release nitrogen gas back into the atmosphere.

• They absorb nitrogen from the soil.

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Identify the form of nitrogen that plants can directly absorb and use.

• Nitrogen gas (N2)

• Ammonium ions (NH4+)

• Nitric oxide (NO)

• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

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What is one consequence of nitrogen deficiency in plants?

• Increased photosynthesis

• Stunted growth

• 
  Enhanced fruit production

• Greater resistance to pests

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Describe one way in which nitrogen is returned to the atmosphere in the nitrogen cycle.

• Through photosynthesis

• By nitrogen-fixing bacteria

• Through denitrification by bacteria

• By evaporation

Predict what might happen to an ecosystem if the nitrogen cycle is disrupted.

• Increased oxygen levels

• Decreased plant growth

• More carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

• Enhanced water cycle

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Analyze how human activities, such as the use of fertilizers, can impact the nitrogen cycle.

• 
  They increase the amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere.

• They decrease the amount of nitrogen available to plants.

• They can lead to an excess of nitrogen in water bodies, causing algal blooms.

• They have no impact on the nitrogen cycle.

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Evaluate the importance of the nitrogen cycle in maintaining ecosystem balance.

• 
  It is not important as ecosystems can function without it.

• It is crucial as it provides essential nutrients for plant growth.

• It only affects aquatic ecosystems.

• It is important only for the carbon cycle.

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