The role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle is to A) fix N₂ into ammonium. B) release ammonium and other inorganic nitrogen compounds from organic compounds, thus returning nitrogen to the soil. C) denitrify ammonium, thus returning N₂ to the atmosphere. D) convert ammonium to nitrate, which can then be absorbed by plants. E) incorporate nitrogen into amino acids and organic compounds.

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Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by breaking down dead organic matter and releasing ammonium and other inorganic nitrogen compounds back into the soil, which can be used by plants to synthesize proteins and other essential molecules. This process is called mineralization or ammonification. Without decomposers, nitrogen would become locked up in dead organic matter and unavailable for use by living organisms, which would limit the productivity of ecosystems.

The Role of Decomposers in the Nitrogen Cycle Is to