Nitrogen is a major constituent of the atmosphere comprising about 79...
- The organic compounds are the amino acids, nucleic acids, proteins, vitamins and pigments.
- Generally, nitrogen is usable only after it is fixed. 90% of fixed nitrogen is biological.
Only a few types of organisms like certain species of soil bacteria and blue-green algae are capable of utilising it directly in its gaseous form.
View all questions of this test
Nitrogen is a major constituent of the atmosphere comprising about 79...
Nitrogen as a Major Constituent of the Atmosphere
Nitrogen is one of the major constituents of the Earth's atmosphere, comprising about 79% of the atmospheric gases. It plays a crucial role in various biological processes and is an essential element for the survival and growth of living organisms.
1. Nitrogen as an Essential Constituent of Organic Compounds
Nitrogen is an essential component of organic compounds such as amino acids and proteins. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are vital for the structure and functioning of cells, tissues, and organs in all living organisms. Proteins have various functions in the body, including enzyme catalysis, cell signaling, transportation of molecules, and structural support.
The presence of nitrogen in organic compounds allows for the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids, leading to the synthesis of proteins. Without nitrogen, the synthesis of these essential biomolecules would not be possible, and life as we know it would not exist.
2. Nitrogen as a Principal Source of Free Nitrogen
The principal source of free nitrogen in the environment is the action of soil microorganisms and associated plant roots on atmospheric nitrogen. Nitrogen gas (N2) is abundant in the atmosphere, but most organisms cannot directly use it in this form. They require nitrogen in a more accessible form, such as ammonia (NH3) or nitrate (NO3-).
Certain nitrogen-fixing bacteria present in the soil, such as Rhizobium and Azotobacter, have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form. These bacteria form symbiotic relationships with certain plants, such as legumes, where they colonize the roots and convert nitrogen gas into ammonia through a process called nitrogen fixation.
The ammonia produced by nitrogen-fixing bacteria can be further converted into nitrate by other soil bacteria in a process called nitrification. This nitrate can then be taken up by plants through their roots and utilized in the synthesis of organic compounds, such as amino acids and proteins. Thus, the action of soil microorganisms and associated plant roots is crucial in making atmospheric nitrogen available to living organisms.
Conclusion
Both statements provided in the question are correct. Nitrogen is indeed an essential constituent of organic compounds such as amino acids and proteins. Additionally, the principal source of free nitrogen is the action of soil microorganisms and associated plant roots on atmospheric nitrogen. Understanding the role of nitrogen in biological processes and its availability in the environment is important for studying various ecological and agricultural systems.
Nitrogen is a major constituent of the atmosphere comprising about 79...
Both options are correct The organic compounds are the amino acids, nucleic acids, proteins, vitamins and pigments.Generally, nitrogen is usable only after it is fixed. 90% of fixed nitrogen is biological.Only a few types of organisms like certain species of soil bacteria and blue-green algae are capable of utilising it directly in its gaseous form.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.