Question

The nitrogen cycle involves bacteria capable of changing proteins to ammonia is

• A. Bacteria of decay
• B. Denitrifying bacteria
• C. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria
• D. Ammonifying bacteria

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Ammonifying bacteria

The correct option is D.

The explanation for the correct option:

1. Ammonification is the process of converting organic nitrogen to ammonia using ammonifying bacteria.
2. This process produces ammonia, which is then expelled into the environment and available for nitrification or absorption.

The explanation for incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Bacteria and fungi that aid in the decomposition process are known as decomposing bacteria and fungi.
2. Decomposition is essential for the transfer of components like carbon from one life form to the next.

Option B:

1. Denitrifying bacteria are a large group of bacteria that belong to a variety of phyla.
2. Denitrification is a process that bacteria, along with denitrifying fungi and archaea, can execute as part of the nitrogen cycle.
3. Denitrification is carried out by a range of denitrifying bacteria found in soils and sediments, which utilize oxidized nitrogen molecules as a terminal electron acceptor in the absence of oxygen.

Option C:

1. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria are microorganisms that can convert nitrogen from the atmosphere into nitrogen fixation (inorganic compounds usable by plants).
2. These species are responsible for more than 90% of all nitrogen fixation, and hence play a vital part in the nitrogen cycle.

Final answer:

The nitrogen cycle involves bacteria capable of changing proteins to ammonia is ammonifying bacteria.