Multiple Choice
How does nitrogen fixed by bacteria ultimately become available to herbivores and carnivores in an ecosystem?
26
views
35. Soil
Nitrogen Fixation
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How do animals obtain usable nitrogen for their biological processes?
A
By directly absorbing atmospheric nitrogen ($N_2$) through their skin
B
By converting nitrogen gas ($N_2$) into ammonia ($NH_3$) within their own cells
C
By consuming plants or other organisms that contain nitrogen compounds
D
By photosynthesizing nitrogen compounds from sunlight
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that nitrogen is an essential element for biological processes, as it is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Recognize that atmospheric nitrogen ($N_2$) is not directly usable by most animals because it is highly stable and requires specific processes to be converted into biologically usable forms.
Learn that nitrogen fixation is primarily carried out by certain bacteria and archaea, which convert $N_2$ into ammonia ($NH_3$) or other nitrogen compounds. These compounds are then absorbed by plants and incorporated into their tissues.
Understand that animals obtain usable nitrogen by consuming plants or other organisms that have already incorporated nitrogen compounds into their bodies. This is how nitrogen enters the food chain.
Note that animals cannot photosynthesize or directly absorb atmospheric nitrogen through their skin, as these processes are not biologically feasible for them.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Nitrogen Fixation practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations