Chemistry (12th Edition)

Published by Prentice Hall
ISBN 10: 0132525763
ISBN 13: 978-0-13252-576-3

Chapter 24 - The Chemistry of Life - 24.6 Metabolism - 24.6 Lesson Check - Page 866: 40

Answer

First, nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia and ammonium ions. Plants and plant-eating organisms then synthesize these nitrogen-saturated compounds. When these plants and animals decay, the nitrogen returns to the atmosphere.

Work Step by Step

First, nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia and ammonium ions. Plants and plant-eating organisms then synthesize these nitrogen-saturated compounds. When these plants and animals decay, the nitrogen returns to the atmosphere.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.