Nitrogen and Carbon Cycles

What is the process where bacteria turns Nitrogen gas from the atmospheres into usable compounds?

• nitrogen composition

• nitrogen fixation

• ammonia

• denitrification

Answer explanation

The process where bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into usable compounds is called nitrogen fixation. This process is essential for making nitrogen accessible to plants and other organisms.

What organism fixes nitrogen in order for plants to use it?

• legume plants

• bacteria

• squirrels

• lightening

Answer explanation

Bacteria, particularly those in the root nodules of legume plants, are responsible for fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere into a form that plants can use. This process is essential for plant growth and soil fertility.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Which process transforms carbon into a compound with more chemical energy?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Primary Production

• Secondary Production

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis is the process that converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight, thus transforming carbon into a compound with more chemical energy.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

The process that convert nitrates (NO3-) back to nitrogen gas (N2) there by replenishing N2 in the atmosphere is called

• Nitrogen fixation

• Deamination

• Denitrification

• Nitrification

Answer explanation

Denitrification is the process that converts nitrates (NO3-) back to nitrogen gas (N2), thus replenishing atmospheric nitrogen. This distinguishes it from nitrogen fixation, deamination, and nitrification.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What is nitrogen fixation?

• The process of converting nitrogen gas into ammonia

• The process of converting ammonia into nitrogen gas

• The process of converting nitrates into nitrogen gas

• The process of converting nitrogen gas into nitrates

Answer explanation

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting nitrogen gas (N2) from the atmosphere into ammonia (NH3), which can be used by plants. This is essential for the nitrogen cycle and supports plant growth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

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Which organism is primarily responsible for nitrogen fixation in the soil?

• Earthworms

• Fungi

• Nitrogen-fixing bacteria

• Decomposers

Answer explanation

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, such as Rhizobium, convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, making them the primary organisms responsible for nitrogen fixation in the soil.

What is the denitrification process?

• The conversion of ammonia to nitrites

• The conversion of nitrates to nitrogen gas

• The conversion of nitrogen gas to ammonia

• The conversion of nitrites to nitrates

Answer explanation

Denitrification is the process where nitrates are converted into nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This is crucial for the nitrogen cycle, helping to reduce excess nitrates in the environment.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

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Which gas is released into the atmosphere during the denitrification process?

• Oxygen

• Carbon dioxide

• Nitrogen gas

• Methane

Answer explanation

During denitrification, bacteria convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This process is crucial for the nitrogen cycle, making 'Nitrogen gas' the correct answer.

What is the primary source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration and combustion

• Nitrogen fixation

• Denitrification

Answer explanation

The primary source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is respiration and combustion. Respiration by living organisms and the burning of fossil fuels release CO2, significantly contributing to atmospheric levels.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

How does photosynthesis affect the carbon cycle?

• It releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

• It converts carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose

• It converts oxygen into carbon dioxide

• It has no effect on the carbon cycle

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis converts carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose, playing a crucial role in the carbon cycle by reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and providing energy for plants and oxygen for other organisms.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6