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The Nitrogen Cycle! Video Lecture | Lucent for GK - UPSC

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1. What is the nitrogen cycle?
The nitrogen cycle is a natural process in which nitrogen is converted into various forms, allowing it to be used by living organisms. It involves several steps, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.
2. How does nitrogen fixation occur in the nitrogen cycle?
Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) is converted into a usable form by certain bacteria called nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria can convert nitrogen gas into ammonia (NH3) or nitrate (NO3-), which can then be used by plants and other organisms.
3. What is nitrification and why is it important in the nitrogen cycle?
Nitrification is the process in which ammonia (NH3) is converted into nitrite (NO2-) and then into nitrate (NO3-). This process is carried out by nitrifying bacteria. Nitrification is important because it transforms ammonia, which is toxic to many organisms, into nitrate, which is a more readily available source of nitrogen for plants.
4. What is denitrification and how does it contribute to the nitrogen cycle?
Denitrification is the process in which nitrate (NO3-) is converted back into nitrogen gas (N2) by denitrifying bacteria. This process occurs in oxygen-depleted environments, such as waterlogged soils or sediments. Denitrification helps to balance the nitrogen cycle by preventing an excessive buildup of nitrate, which could lead to environmental issues like contamination of water bodies.
5. How does human activity impact the nitrogen cycle?
Human activity, particularly through the use of fertilizers in agriculture and industrial processes, has greatly disrupted the nitrogen cycle. Excessive nitrogen inputs from fertilizers can lead to eutrophication of water bodies, harmful algal blooms, and air pollution. Additionally, the burning of fossil fuels releases nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and the formation of smog. Proper management and reduction of nitrogen inputs are essential to mitigate these impacts and restore balance to the nitrogen cycle.
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