[Campbell Biology P.869] Referring to the provided diagram of the nitrogen cycle, which proc... | Practice Question

Referring to the provided diagram of the nitrogen cycle, which process converts atmospheric nitrogen N₂ into a form usable by plants, and which specific group of organisms is primarily responsible for this conversion?

  • A: Nitrification; Nitrifying bacteria.
  • B: Ammonification; Ammonifying bacteria.
  • C: Denitrification; Denitrifying bacteria.
  • D: Nitrogen fixation; Nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Explanation

The diagram clearly illustrates that atmospheric N₂ is converted into a usable form by "Nitrogen-fixing bacteria" through the process of nitrogen fixation. This is a crucial step for making atmospheric nitrogen available to plants.