Question

Briefly explain Nitrogen fixation and Nitrogen assimilation.

Answer 1

Nitrogen fixation:
Nitrogen fixation is the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen, which is in inert form into reactive compounds available to living organisms.

• This conversion is done by a number of bacteria and blue green algae (Cyanobacteria). Leguminous plants like pea and beans have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen fixing bacteria Rhizobium.
• Rhizobia occur in the root nodules of leguminous plants and fixes nitrogenous compounds.

Nitrogen assimilation:
Plants absorb nitrate ions and use them for making organic matter like proteins and nucleic acids.

• Herbivorous animals convert plant proteins into animal proteins. Carnivorous animals synthesize proteins from their food.