Chapter 24, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The nitrogen cycle is to be described.

Concept introduction: The nitrogen cycle is important because of the significance of nitrogen as a nutrient in the process of maintaining life on Earth. The building blocks of proteins, amino acids, and nucleic acids, which make up genetic material, all contain nitrogen as a major component (RNA and DNA).

Answer to Problem 75A

The nitrogen cycle is a process in which nitrogen is converted into several forms as it passes from the atmosphere to the soil to organisms and back to the atmosphere. It consists of various processes, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and Ammonification.

Explanation of Solution

The process by which nitrogen is converted into its many different chemical forms is referred to as the nitrogen cycle. Fixation is the process by which nitrogen-fixing bacteria transform atmospheric nitrogen gas into ammonia. In a process known as nitrification, nitrifying bacteria transform this ammonia into nitrites and nitrates.

Ammonification is the conversion of nitrogen from organic wastes and decomposing plants and animals into ammonium. This ammonium is converted into nitrites and nitrates. After then, microorganisms known as denitrifiers convert the nitrates back into nitrogen gas. This process is called denitrification, which causes the cycle to continue.

Conclusion

The nitrogen cycle is a process in which nitrogen is converted into several forms as it passes from the atmosphere to the soil to organisms and back to the atmosphere. It consists of various processes, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and decomposition.