Question

assuming no fertilizers were being used identify one factor that might limit the growth of new vegetation in a previously deforest area
include denitrification

Answer 1

One factor that might limit the growth of new vegetation in a previously deforested area is the availability of nutrients, specifically nitrogen. Denitrification is a natural process in which soil bacteria convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, which can then escape into the atmosphere. This process can deplete the soil of nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plant growth. Without an external source of nitrogen, such as fertilizers, the lack of nitrogen in the soil may limit the growth of new vegetation in the area.