The Living World: Ecosystems
Which process in the nitrogen cycle converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants?
Denitrification
Nitrogen fixation
Nitrification
Ammonification
What alteration to the nitrogen cycle occurs when factories emit nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere, contributing to smog and acid rain?
Assimilation by producers
Atmospheric deposition
Ammonia volatilization
Anaerobic respiration by denitrifying bacteria
Which process in the nitrogen cycle is most directly affected by climatic changes that alter temperature and moisture levels in soil ecosystems?
Denitrification as a consequence of decreased plant nitrogen uptake efficiency.
Ammonification because of increased organic matter decomposition rates.
Nitrification due to changes in soil bacteria activity levels.
Nitrogen fixation resulting from variations in legume plant populations.
Which component of the nitrogen cycle involves bacteria converting nitrates back into nitrogen gas?
Decomposition
Denitrification
Nitrogen fixation
Nitrification
Why is nitrogen common in fertilizers?
Because it is abundant in the environment
Because plants require nitrogen to grow
Because it enhances water availability
Because it reduces soil acidity
What is a consequence of overusing nitrogen fertilizers in ecosystems?
Enhanced species richness
Disruption of ecosystem balances
Improved nutrient availability
Increased plant growth rate
In what form do animals excrete excess nitrogen?
Ammonia
Urea or uric acid
Nitrites

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Which of the following is the correct order of these steps in the nitrogen cycle?
Assimilation, Nitrification, Mineralization
Demineralization, Nitrification, Assimilation
Assimilation, Demineralization, Nitrification
Nitrification, Assimilation, Mineralization
Which conservation strategy would most effectively combat biodiversity loss due to human-induced land changes?
Promoting monoculture agriculture to diversify crop production
Implementing broad-scale clearcutting cycles to promote forest regeneration
Building extensive dam networks to create reservoirs and support wildlife
Establishing protected areas, limit development, preserve natural habitats
In what form do plants typically absorb nitrogen?
Nitrate ions ()
Atmospheric nitrogen gas ()
Ammonia gas ()
Organic matter containing proteins and nucleic acids