Question

The given equation refers to N₂ + 8e^– + 8H⁺ + 16ATP → 2NH₃ + H₂ + 16ADP + 16P_i

• A. Nitrification
• B. Denitrification
• C. Ammonification
• D. Nitrogen Fixation

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Nitrogen Fixation

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

Option D:

1. Nitrogen fixation is the process of conversion of atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia.
2. In this reaction, Nitrogen is gaining electrons and hence it is called a reduction reaction.
3. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria invade the roots of the plants, form nodules, and divide in large numbers for the conversion to take place.
4. Rhizobium, Rhodobacter, and Azotobacter are some examples of nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

1. Nitrification is the natural process that occurs in the environment by specialized autotrophic bacteria.
2. During this aerobic process, ammonia is converted to nitrites (NO2-) and then nitrates (NO3-).

Option B:

1. Denitrification is the opposite of nitrification.
2. Here nitrate present in the soil is reduced by denitrifying bacteria into nitrogen.
3. Pseudomonas and Thiobacillus are denitrifying bacteria.
4. Facultative anaerobes utilize nitrogen oxide as an electron acceptor instead of oxygen to perform anaerobic respiration.

Option C:

1. The nitrogen compounds inside their bodies break down into ammonia and this process is known as ammonification.
2. Ammonification is a part of the nitrogen cycle, where organisms are provided with essential nitrogen that they need to survive.
3. Ammonification is the process where microscopic organisms like bacteria or other types of decomposing organisms, break down nitrogen-containing chemicals from dead organic matter, into simple substances like ammonia.
4. These simpler substances help in sustaining the ecosystem.

Final answer: Nitrogen Fixation refers to N₂ + 8e^– + 8H⁺ + 16ATP → 2NH₃ + H₂ + 16ADP + 16P_i