About

It encompasses a variety of processes, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and ammonification. These processes are essential for maintaining nitrogen balance in ecosystems and are influenced by both biological and physical factors. Nitrogen fixation converts atmospheric nitrogen into organic compounds, such as ammonia and ammonium, which can then be used by plants and other organisms. Nitrification involves the conversion of ammonium into nitrate, which is a form of nitrogen that can be readily used by plants. Denitrification, on the other hand, converts nitrate back into nitrogen gas, completing the cycle. Ammonification is the process by which organic nitrogen compounds are decomposed into ammonium. Human activities, such as the use of synthetic fertilizers and the combustion of fossil fuels, have greatly disrupted the nitrogen cycle, leading to environmental problems such as eutrophication and air pollution. Efforts to understand and mitigate these impacts are ongoing.