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Nitrogen fixation
Atmospheric nitrogen is converted into nitrogen-containing compounds in the soil.
What are the two methods of nitrogen fixation?
Lightening strikes and nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Azotobacter (free-living bacteria in soil) and Rhizobium (living in root nodules of legumes).
Nitrogen fixing bacteria
Azotobacter and Rhizobium convert gaseous nitrogen into ammonium ions.
Nitrification
Nitrosomonas convert ammonium ions to nitrites.
Nitrobacter oxidise nitrites to nitrates
Ammonification
The conversion of nitrogen-containing compounds in dead organisms back to ammonium ions by decomposers.
Denitrification
The conversion of excess nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen gas through denitrifying bacteria.
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