Nitrogen can be "fixed" in the soil. What is the main cause of nitrogen fixation in the soil?

water cycle

bacteria

lightning

1 answer

The main cause of nitrogen fixation in the soil is bacteria. Specifically, certain types of bacteria, including those in the genera Rhizobium and Frankia, can convert atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a form that plants can use (such as ammonia). While lightning can also contribute to nitrogen fixation by converting atmospheric nitrogen into nitrates, the primary biological process happens through these nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil and in the root nodules of some plants.