- Nitrogen Fixation: Atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) is converted into ammonia (NH₃) by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, often in symbiosis with plants like legumes.
- Ammonification: Decomposers break down organic nitrogen from dead organisms and waste into ammonia (NH₃).
- Nitrification: Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia (NH₃) first into nitrite (NO₂⁻) and then into nitrate (NO₃⁻), which plants can absorb.
- Assimilation: Plants take up nitrate (NO₃⁻) and ammonium (NH₄⁺) from the soil to build proteins and nucleic acids; animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals.
- Denitrification: Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrate (NO₃⁻) back into nitrogen gas (N₂), releasing it into the atmosphere and completing the cycle.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of nitrogen cycle diagram worksheet.