Nitrogen cycle and ions in plants

What organisms convert atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates?

nitrogen fixing bacteria

What molecules do plants and animals need nitrates to form?

proteins

What organisms convert nitrates to ammonia (in soil)

decomposers

What organisms convert ammonia (in soil) to nitrates?

nitrifying bacteria

What organisms create nitrites?

nitrifying bacteria

What organisms convert nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen?

denitrifying bacteria

What abiotic processes convert atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates?

Electrical storms; fertiliser synthesis

What are symptoms of nitrate deficiency in plants?(2)

stunted growth and older leaves turn yellow

Why are phosphates needed by plants?(4)

DNA, cell membranes, respiration, and growth

What are symptoms of phosphate deficiency in plants?(2)

Poor root growth and older leaves turn purple

What is potassium needed for in plants?

Helping the enzymes needed for photosynthesis and respiration

What are symptoms of potassium deficiency in plants?(2)

poor flower and fruit growth and discoloured leaves

What other mineral ion is needed in small amounts?

Magnesium

What is magnesium needed for in plants?

making chlorophyll

What is a symptom of magnesium deficiency?

yellow leaves