Question

Why nitrogen fixation is important?

Answer 1

Importance of nitrogen fixation:

1. Nitrogen fixation is the biological process done by microorganisms by which atmospheric nitrogen $N_2$is converted into nitrogen compounds that can be assimilated by plants.
2. Nitrogen fixation can also occur through lightning or industrial processes.
3. Nitrogen is present as $N_2$ in the atmosphere which cannot be absorbed by plants or animals.
4. Through nitrogen fixation, bacteria like Azotobacter, Rhizobium converts $N_2$ into ammonia which can be assimilated by plants.
5. Hence, nitrogen fixation solves the major issue of non-assimilation of atmospheric nitrogen.
6. Many biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids etc. contain nitrogen. So nitrogen is essential for biosynthesis.
7. Nitrogen fixation hence assures the availability of nitrogen in an absorbable form.
8. Therefore nitrogen fixation is an essential process since it makes the atmospheric nitrogen in usable form to organisms.