nitrogen cycle

Question 1

what is nitrogen required to manufacture?

Answer 1

proteins, nucleic acids, nitrogen-containing compounds, amino acids

Question 2

how much of the atmosphere is made of nitrogen?

Answer 2

78%

Question 3

why can’t plants and animals access nitrogen?

Answer 3

they can’t access is as it exists in a gaseous state as a nitrogen gas.

Question 4

what is ammonification?

Answer 4

ammonification is the process of ammonia being produced from nitrogen-containing compounds. Saprobionts break down faeces and dead organisms which releases ammonia into the soil. Ammonia in the soil forms ammonium ions.

Question 5

what is the process of nitrification?

Answer 5

nitrification is the process of converting ammonium ions into nitrite and then nitrate. It’s carried out by nitrifying bacteria. It’s an oxidative reaction so therefore releases oxygen. The process has to take place in soil that has lots of air spaces as nitrifying bacteria require energy.