The nitrogen cycle requires animals, bacteria LEGUMES plants to convert nitrogen to nitrates in nitrates

Answer 1

The nitrogen cycle is a natural process that involves the conversion of nitrogen in the environment. Nitrogen, in its atmospheric form (N2), is not readily accessible to most organisms. Therefore, it needs to be converted into more usable forms, such as nitrates (NO3-) and ammonia (NH3), through a series of biological and chemical reactions.

In the nitrogen cycle, various organisms play essential roles. These include animals, bacteria, and legume plants. Legumes are a type of plant that have a unique ability to form a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called rhizobia. This symbiosis occurs in specialized structures called nodules found on the roots of legume plants.

The bacteria in these nodules can convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia through a process called nitrogen fixation. The ammonia is then further converted into nitrates through a process called nitrification, which involves the action of bacteria like nitrosomonas and nitrobacter.

Animals also contribute to the nitrogen cycle through several means. When animals consume plant and animal proteins as part of their diet, they break down these proteins into simpler compounds during digestion. This breakdown process releases nitrogen into the environment in the form of waste products like urine and feces.

Bacteria, both in the soil and water ecosystems, play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by carrying out denitrification. Denitrification is a process by which bacteria convert nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen, completing the cycle and maintaining a balance of nitrogen in the ecosystem.

In summary, the nitrogen cycle involves the participation of animals, bacteria, and legume plants to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms like nitrates and ammonia. This conversion process enables the continual availability of nitrogen for biological organisms and maintains the balance of nitrogen in the environment.