9.15 - Nitrates Flashcards
Why can’t plants use nitrogen gas directly from the atmosphere?
Nitrogen gas in the atmosphere is too unreactive for direct use by plants.
How do nitrogen-fixing bacteria help plants?
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria present in the root nodules of legume plants convert nitrogen gas into nitrates that can be used for growth.
What natural process can convert nitrogen gas into nitrates?
Lightning can convert nitrogen gas into nitrates.
What does the Haber process do?
The Haber process converts hydrogen gas into ammonia.
How do plants absorb nitrates?
Plants absorb nitrates through the roots by active transport.
In what form is nitrogen often included in fertilizers?
Nitrogen is often included in fertilizers in the form of ammonium nitrate.
What is the purpose of ammonium nitrate in fertilizers?
Ammonium nitrate provides an artificial way to ensure that plants get nitrates required for growth, without relying on external processes such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria or lightning.
