nitrification
Quick Summary
Nitrification is a crucial step in the nitrogen cycle, a process that makes nitrogen available to living organisms. It involves the chemical transformation of ammonia (NH3) into nitrites (NO2-) and then into nitrates (NO3-). This process is carried out by specific types of bacteria known as nitrifying bacteria.123
Plants can readily absorb nitrates from the soil to use in their growth and development. Nitrification is essential because while atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) is abundant, most organisms cannot utilize it directly. The conversion of ammonia to nitrates by nitrifying bacteria makes this vital element accessible, supporting plant life, which in turn sustains animal life.435
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nitrogen cycleNitrification, a process carried out by nitrifying bacteria, transforms soil ammonia into nitrates (NO3−), which plants can incorporate into their own tissues.
Read MoreNitrification, a process carried out by nitrifying bacteria, transforms soil ammonia into nitrates (NO3−), which plants can incorporate into their own tissues.
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atmosphereNitrogen budgetIn a process called nitrification, or nitrogen fixation, bacteria such as Rhizobium living within nodules on the roots of peas, clover, and other legumes convert diatomic nitrogen gas to ammonia. A small amount of nitrogen is also fixed by lightning. Ammonia may be further transformed by other bacteria into…
Read MoreIn a process called nitrification, or nitrogen fixation, bacteria such as Rhizobium living within nodules on the roots of peas, clover, and other legumes convert diatomic nitrogen gas to ammonia. A small amount of nitrogen is also fixed by lightning. Ammonia may be further transformed by other bacteria into…
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biosphereThe nitrogen cycle…through the oxidative process of nitrification. Once nitrogen has been assimilated by plants, it can be converted to organic forms, such as amino acids and proteins. Animals can use only organic nitrogen, which they obtain by consuming plants or other animals. As these organisms die, certain microbes such as detritivores…
Read More…through the oxidative process of nitrification. Once nitrogen has been assimilated by plants, it can be converted to organic forms, such as amino acids and proteins. Animals can use only organic nitrogen, which they obtain by consuming plants or other animals. As these organisms die, certain microbes such as detritivores…
Read More