Question

In the nitrogen cycle, which group of bacteria convert nitrates and nitrites back to atmospheric gas?

• A. Denitrifying bacteria
• B. Nitrifying bacteria
• C. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Denitrifying bacteria

The correct option is A

The explanation for the correct option:

1. Denitrifying bacteria are microorganisms that deplete soil fertility and reduce agricultural output by converting nitrates and nitrites in the soil into free atmospheric nitrogen.

The explanation for incorrect options:

Option B:

1. Nitrifying Bacteria are a tiny category of aerobic bacteria that get their energy from inorganic compounds.
2. They are microorganisms that play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting soil ammonia to nitrates, which plants may use.

Option C:

1. Nitrogen-fixing prokaryotes microorganisms are capable of converting nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into plant-usable "fixed nitrogen" molecules like ammonia. Find out more about nitrogen fixation.

Final answer: In the nitrogen cycle, denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates and nitrites back to atmospheric gas