Nitrogen Cycle Overview

Flashcards based on the nitrogen cycle and its processes, human impacts, and related concepts.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia (NH₃) or nitrates (NO₃), making it usable for plants.

Nitrification

The conversion of ammonia into nitrites (NO₂) and then into nitrates (NO₃) by specific bacteria in the soil.

Assimilation

The process by which plants absorb nitrates through their roots and use them to build important molecules like amino acids and proteins.

Ammonification

The decomposition process where dead organisms and waste break down, converting nitrogen back into ammonia (NH₃) or ammonium ions (NH₄).

Denitrification

The process where certain bacteria convert nitrates back into nitrogen gas (N₂) or nitrous oxide (N₂O) in low-oxygen environments.

Eutrophication

A condition resulting from excess nitrogen in water bodies, leading to excessive algae growth and subsequent oxygen depletion.

Haber-Bosch Process

An industrial method for synthesizing ammonia on a large scale, significantly increasing available nitrogen in the environment.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Gases released by burning fossil fuels, which can contribute to acid rain and atmospheric pollution.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases like nitrous oxide (N₂O) that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.

Biodiversity Impact

The disturbance of different species and ecosystems caused by human modifications in the natural nitrogen cycle.