The Nitrogen Cycle

Nitrogen Cycle

The movement of nitrogen around the biosphere

Nitrogen Fixation

A process by which some organisms can convert nitrogen gas molecules directly into ammonia

Nitrification

The conversion of ammonia (NH4+) into nitrate (NO2-) and then into nitrate (NO3-)

Assimilation

The process by which producers incorporate elements into their tissues

Mineralization

The process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic matter found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic compounds

Ammonification

The process by which fungal and bacterial decomposers break down the organic nitrogen found in dead bodies and waste products and convert it into inorganic ammonium (NH4+)

Denitrification

The conversion of nitrate (NO3-) in a series of steps into the gases nitrous oxide (N2O) and, eventually, nitrogen gas (N2), which is emitted into the atmosphere