Nitrogen Cycle Flashcards
How much of the earth is nitrogen?
78%
Can nitrogen be written as N
NOOOO
1) Nitrogen Fixation
Bacteria absorb N2 from the atmosphere and convert it into ammonia (NH3) then ammonium (NH4+).
2) Nitrification
Ammonium (NH4+) is converted into nitrite (NO2-) & then nitrate (NO3-) by specialized bacteria
3) Assimilation
Usable nitrogen is absorbed into the tissues of producers or animals that eat the producers
4) Ammonification
Plants/animals die or create waste and decomposers reak down organic matter and produce ammonia which returns to the soil
5) Denitrification
Specialized bacteria convert Nitrate (NO3-) into N2O then nitrogen gas (N2), which is released back into the atmosphere
Biotic Nitrogen cycle
Baterica doing everything
Abiotic Nitrogen cycle
Lightning or combustion conver N2 to NO3
plants using N2
Man made fertilizers can convert N2