Carbon & Nitrogen Cycles

Front

What is the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged between the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. It involves processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

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What is the nitrogen cycle?

Back

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms. It includes nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification.

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting nitrogen gas (N2) from the atmosphere into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds in soil, making it available for plants.

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What role do denitrifying bacteria play in the nitrogen cycle?

Back

Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates (NO3-) back into nitrogen gas (N2), releasing it into the atmosphere and completing the nitrogen cycle.

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How do plants absorb nitrogen?

Back

Plants absorb nitrogen primarily in the form of nitrates (NO3-) through their roots from the soil.

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What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

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What is the role of plants in the carbon cycle?

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Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, which helps reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Front

Can humans use nitrogen from the air?

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False. Humans cannot directly use nitrogen from the air; they need to consume it through food that contains nitrogen compounds.

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What is ammonification?

Back

Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen from dead plants and animals is converted into ammonia (NH3) by decomposers.

Front

What is nitrification?

Back

Nitrification is the process by which ammonia (NH3) is converted into nitrites (NO2-) and then into nitrates (NO3-) by bacteria in the soil.