[Campbell Biology P.864] Which of the following statements accurately describes a key step i... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a key step in the nitrogen cycle as presented in the text and Figure 37.11?

  • A: Nitrification is a two-step process carried out by nitrifying bacteria, converting NH3 to NO2- and then to NO3-.
  • B: Denitrifying bacteria convert atmospheric N2 into NH3, making it available for plants.
  • C: Ammonification is the process where plants absorb NO3- and reduce it back to NH4+.
  • D: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert NO3- to N2, releasing it into the atmosphere.

Explanation

The text explicitly states that 'nitrification, which consists of the oxidation of ammonia NH3 to nitrite NO2- , followed by oxidation of NO2- to NO3-.' Figure 37.11 also illustrates this two-step process mediated by nitrifying bacteria.