Which one of the following statements defines `Anoxic denitrification...
A biological nitrogen removal process in which nitrate nitrogen is converted by microorganisms to nitrogen gas in the absence of dissolved oxygen (DO) is known as anoxic denitrification.
Which one of the following statements defines `Anoxic denitrification...
Understanding Anoxic Denitrification
Anoxic denitrification is a crucial biological process in the nitrogen cycle, particularly in wastewater treatment and environmental management.
What is Anoxic Denitrification?
- Anoxic denitrification refers to the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) to nitrogen gas (N2) in an environment that lacks oxygen (anoxic conditions).
Importance of Anoxic Conditions
- This process occurs in environments where oxygen levels are low, such as in sediments, wetlands, and certain engineered treatment systems.
- It helps in reducing nitrate concentrations in water bodies, thus preventing eutrophication—a condition that leads to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen in aquatic ecosystems.
Process Overview
- In anoxic denitrification, bacteria utilize nitrate as an electron acceptor instead of oxygen for their respiration.
- The end products of this process include nitrogen gas (N2) and sometimes nitrous oxide (N2O), both of which are gases that can be released into the atmosphere.
Key Distinctions
- It differs from nitrification, which involves the conversion of ammonia to nitrate, and from aerobic denitrification, which occurs in the presence of oxygen.
- Anoxic denitrification is significant for maintaining nitrogen balance and promoting environmental health.
Conclusion
- The correct answer is option 'C' because it accurately describes the biological process of converting nitrate to nitrogen gas in the absence of oxygen, highlighting its ecological and treatment relevance.
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