Nitrogen Cycle Flashcards
What is nitrogen fixation?
It’s when nitrogen gas is converted into nitrates by nitrogen fixing bacteria.
Nitrogen fixing bacteria are aerobic so they need oxygen.
The process is quickened by the presence of oxygen and higher temperatures.
What is decomposition?
It’s when bacteria or fungi break down dead protein found in dead plants and animals and convert urine and faeces into ammonia.
What is nitrification?
It’s when ammonia is converted into nitrates by nitrifying bacteria.
Nitrifying bacteria need oxygen as they are aerobic.
The process is quickened by the presence of oxygen and higher temperatures.
What is denitrification?
It’s when nitrates are converted into nitrogen gas.
This process is disadvantageous for the soil and plants.
This is carried out by denitrifying bacteria.
Denitrifying bacteria are anaerobic so they don’t need oxygen. This means they thrive in waterlogged soil.
