In terrestrial ecosystems, nitrogen is returned to the atmosphere by:
A)nitrifying bacteria.
B)denitrifying bacteria.
C)nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
D)All of these choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrate back into nitrogen gas, which is then released back into the atmosphere. Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonium into nitrate, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert nitrogen gas into ammonium, so these processes actually add nitrogen to the ecosystem rather than returning it to the atmosphere.

In Terrestrial Ecosystems, Nitrogen Is Returned to the Atmosphere By