the nitrogen & carbon cycle

nitrification

the biological process by which microorganisms oxidize ammonia into nitrite and then into nitrate.

combustion

the rapid chemical reaction where a substance (fuel) reacts with an oxidant, typically oxygen, to produce heat and light, releasing stored chemical energy.

nitrogen fixation

process of converting inert atmospheric nitrogen gas into more reactive nitrogen compounds, such as ammonia

denitrification

microbial process by which nitrogen compounds in soil or water are converted into gaseous nitrogen (N2) and released into the atmosphere.

ammonification 

process in the nitrogen cycle where decomposers, like bacteria and fungi, break down organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste products, converting it into inorganic ammonium in the soil.

decomposition

returns phosphorus to the environment by decomposers breaking down dead plants, animals, and waste, releasing inorganic phosphate (PO4^3−) into the soil and water

nitrogen fixing bacteria 

are microorganisms that convert inert atmospheric nitrogen gas into ammonia or other usable nitrogen compounds, a process essential for the nitrogen cycle and for providing nutrients to plants.

denitrification by nitrifying bacteria

process where certain bacteria convert nitrate back into nitrogen gas, which then escapes into the atmosphere

respiration

the metabolic process where cells break down glucose and other fuel molecules to convert the stored chemical energy into ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell, which then powers cellular activities.

photosynthesis

the biological process where light energy from the sun is converted into chemical energy in the form of organic molecules, like glucose, by plants, algae, and some bacteria.