Question

Organic compounds in dead organic matter is converted into ammonia as a result of

• A. Decomposotion
• B. Assimilation
• C. Nitrification
• D. Ammonification

Answer 1

The correct option is D Ammonification

Ammonification is the process by which nitrogen stored in organic matter such as animals and plants is converted into ammonium. Decomposers in the soil recycle the nitrogen, creating ammonium which allows for the nitrogen to enter the process of nitrification. Nitrification is the conversion of the ammonium to nitrites then nitrates by aerobic bacteria. These nitrates are usable by plants and are assimilated into the plants system. The nitrates are used for creating proteins as well as amino acids within the plants. Animals can only assimilate nitrogen through the consumption of the plants or of other animals. Not all of the nitrates are assimilated and some enter a process known as denitrification. Some bacteria use the nitrates for oxygen for metabolism leaving the nitrogen to be freed and return to the atmosphere.

So, the correct answer is 'Ammonification'.