Nitrogen Cycle in the Environment

Description of the nitrogen cycle

Nitrogen cycle diagram
By Slav
1 min read

The Nitrogen Cycle

The nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical cycle that converts nitrogen into various forms throughout the ecosystem. Nitrogen is an essential element for life that organisms use in the synthesis of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Yet, while the atmosphere is rich in nitrogen (about 78%), this nitrogen (N2) is largely inaccessible to cells in its gaseous form. Through the nitrogen cycle, atmospheric nitrogen undergoes various transformations. Living organisms use nitrogen and ultimately return it back to the atmosphere.

UCLA link

Major Steps of the Nitrogen Cycle:

The stages are identified on the visual format

I. Nitrogen Fixation

II. Nitrification

III. Assimilation

IV. Ammonification

V. Denitrification

Key Points to Remember:

  • Nitrogen is vital for proteins, DNA, and life itself.
  • Bacteria play a critical role in almost every step of the cycle.
  • Without the nitrogen cycle, ecosystems could not sustain plant and animal life.

Explore more at the Britannica