Nitrogen fixation results in the
A) loss of biologically available N from an ecosystem.
B) formation of nitrogen gas.
C) direct formation of nitrate.
D) addition of biologically available N to an ecosystem.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into biologically available forms such as ammonia (NH3) or nitrate (NO3-). Therefore, it results in the addition of biologically available nitrogen to an ecosystem. Option A is incorrect because nitrogen fixation does not lead to the loss of biologically available N, but rather its addition. Option B is incorrect because nitrogen fixation does not result in the formation of nitrogen gas but rather the conversion of N2 to other forms of nitrogen. Option C is partially correct because nitrogen fixation can lead to the direct formation of nitrate, but it can also lead to the formation of other nitrogen-containing compounds like ammonia.

Nitrogen Fixation Results in the