The three steps of the Nitrogen Cycle are:
1. Nitrogen fixation: This is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) is converted into ammonia (NH3) by nitrogen-fixing bacteria and archaea, as well as lightning and industrial processes. The ammonia is then converted into ammonium (NH4+) by other microorganisms, making it available to plants.
2. Nitrification: In this step, nitrifying bacteria convert ammonium (NH4+) into nitrite (NO2-) and then into nitrate (NO3-). This process occurs in two stages: first, the bacteria convert ammonium to nitrite, and then another set of bacteria convert the nitrite to nitrate. Nitrate is a form of nitrogen that plants can absorb and use to build proteins and other essential molecules.
3. Denitrification: This is the final step of the nitrogen cycle, in which denitrifying bacteria convert nitrate (NO3-) back into nitrogen gas (N2) under anaerobic (oxygen-poor) conditions. This releases nitrogen gas back into the atmosphere, completing the cycle.
Overall, the nitrogen cycle plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nitrogen in the environment by cycling it through the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms.
What are the three steps of the Nitrogen Cycle? Help me.
1 answer
1 answer