The high levels of atmospheric nitrogen are due primarily to the fact that:
A)the earth is constantly bombarded by small, house-sized comets.
B)nitrogen has a very long residence time.
C)nitrogen is the major component of the gas emitted from volcanoes.
D)nitrogen is produced by many species of bacteria.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nitrogen gas (N2) has a very long residence time in the atmosphere, meaning it remains in the atmosphere for a long time and does not easily react with other chemicals to form new compounds. Nitrogen is also an essential element for life, and many organisms (including bacteria) can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by plants and other organisms. However, the high levels of atmospheric nitrogen are primarily due to its long residence time, rather than its production by bacteria or volcanic emissions. The earth is not constantly bombarded by small comets releasing nitrogen gas into the atmosphere in significant quantities.

The High Levels of Atmospheric Nitrogen Are Due Primarily to the Fact