Biology
Draw a diagram showing the Nitrogen cycle and answer the following questions.
(a) Define the terms:
- Nitrification
- Denitrification
(b) Distinguish between biological nitrogen fixation and industrial nitrogen fixation.
(c) Name the kind of relationship that exists between Rhizobium and leguminous plants.
Answer
(a) Below diagram shows the Nitrogen cycle:
- Nitrification — The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates is called nitrification.
- Denitrification — The conversion of nitrates into atmospheric nitrogen is called Denitrification.
(b) Difference between biological nitrogen fixation and industrial nitrogen fixation are:
| S. No. | Biological Nitrogen Fixation | Industrial Nitrogen Fixation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Biological nitrogen fixation is carried out primarily by bacteria known as nitrogen-fixing bacteria. | Industrial nitrogen fixation involves a series of controlled chemical reactions. |
| 2. | Biological nitrogen fixation occurs in natural ecosystems such as soil, aquatic environments and symbiotic associations with plants. | Industrial nitrogen fixation occurs in controlled industrial settings, such as chemical plants or fertilizer production facilities. |
| 3. | Nitrogen-fixing bacteria possess the enzyme nitrogenase, which converts atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) through a series of biochemical reactions. | The Haber-Bosch process uses high pressure and temperature, along with a catalyst, to convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) and hydrogen (H2) into ammonia (NH3). |
(c) Symbiotic relationship.
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