Question

How does lightning fix nitrogen in the soil?

Answer 1

1. Lightning breaks the nitrogen molecule into nitrogen atoms. These nitrogen atoms combine with oxygen present in the air to form nitrogen oxides.
2. When it rains, these nitrogen oxides combine with water to form nitrates which are carried to the earth.
3. These nitrates are used for nitrogen fixation by the plants. It accounts for 5 - 8% of nitrogen fixation by the plants.
4. Another mode of nitrogen fixation includes biological nitrogen fixation which occurs via Rhizobium bacteria.