Step 1: Begin by understanding the nitrogen cycle, which is a series of processes that convert nitrogen into various chemical forms as it circulates among the atmosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, and marine environments.
Step 2: Nitrogen fixation is the first step in the cycle. Atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) is converted into ammonia (NH₃) or related compounds by nitrogen-fixing bacteria or through abiotic processes like lightning. This makes nitrogen available to living organisms.
Step 3: Nitrification follows nitrogen fixation. In this step, ammonia (NH₃) is oxidized into nitrites (NO₂⁻) and then into nitrates (NO₃⁻) by nitrifying bacteria. Nitrates are a form of nitrogen that plants can readily absorb.
Step 4: Assimilation occurs next, where plants absorb nitrates (NO₃⁻) from the soil and incorporate them into organic molecules like amino acids and proteins. Animals then obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals.
Step 5: Ammonification and denitrification complete the cycle. Ammonification occurs when decomposers break down organic nitrogen compounds into ammonia (NH₃). Denitrification is the final step, where denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates (NO₃⁻) back into nitrogen gas (N₂), releasing it into the atmosphere.