Nitrogen Cycle

Main Stages of the Nitrogen Cycle

Nitrogen Fixation

The process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia or ammonium, making it usable by living organisms.

Consumption

One organism eats another and obtains the nitrogen in it

Decomposition

decomposers, like bacteria, break down dead matter returning nitrogen to the soil

Ammonification

The process by which decomposers break down organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil as ammonia.

Nitrification

The conversion of ammonia to nitrates (NO₃⁻) by nitrifying bacteria. First into nitrites, and then into nitrates.

Denitrification

The process by which denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates back into nitrogen gas (N₂), occurring best in low-oxygen environments.

Assimilation

The process by which plants absorb nitrogen (as ammonia or nitrates) and incorporate it into their tissues to build essential molecules like proteins, DNA, and RNA.