Biogeochemical Cycles and the Nitrogen Cycle

The process of photosynthesis and respiration in plants.

A pathway for chemicals necessary for life to move through the environment. 

The movement of energy through living organisms in an ecosystem.

The study of the interactions between organisms and their environment.

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia, while ammonifying bacteria convert organic nitrogen from once living organisms to ammonia.

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert ammonia to nitrogen gas, and ammonifying bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates.

Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plants and animals.