In what part of the ocean is denitrification likely to be MOST important?
A)shallow waters rich in oxygen
B)subsurface water masses that contain little or no oxygen
C)surface waters of the open ocean
D)deep within marine sediments

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Denitrification is a process carried out by bacteria that converts nitrate (NO3-) to nitrogen gas (N2). This process requires low or no oxygen conditions and is therefore most likely to occur in subsurface water masses that contain little or no oxygen. In shallow waters rich in oxygen, there is plenty of oxygen available for other processes like photosynthesis and respiration to occur, making denitrification less important. In surface waters of the open ocean, there may be limited nutrients including nitrate, limiting the occurrence of denitrification. While denitrification can occur in marine sediments, the rates are typically lower than in subsurface water masses.

In What Part of the Ocean Is Denitrification Likely to Be