Nitrogen Cycle

How is nitrogen used by organisms?

Nitrogen is an important component of proteins and nucleic acids – DNA and RNA.

Fun fact about nitrogen?

Nitrogen gas makes up 78% of our atmosphere – you are breathing in mostly nitrogen right now!

What is nitrogen fixation?

Bacteria in the soil and root nodules of leguminous plants convert nitrogen gas into ammonium ions.

What is nitrification?

The process of turning ammonium ions into nitrites and nitrates. This is done by groups of nitrifying bacteria.

What is assimilation (nitrogen cycle)?

This is the uptake of nitrates from the soil by the roots of plants.

What is ammonification?

Decomposers turn nitrogen compounds from dead organisms and organic waste into ammonium.

What is denitrification?

The process of turning nitrates into nitrogen gas. This is done by denitrifying bacteria.