Nitrogen Cycle Diagram

A Diagram of the nitrogen cycle is useful for understanding the functioning of the cycle. The nitrogen cycle steps involve nitrogen fixation, where atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia by nitrogen-fixing bacteria. It is followed by Nitrification where ammonia is transformed into nitrite and then nitrate by nitrifying bacteria. Finally, denitrification completes the cycle by converting nitrate back into atmospheric nitrogen. In this article, we will learn about the various steps involved through the well-labeled diagram of the nitrogen cycle.

The labeled diagram of the nitrogen cycle with arrows is shown below along with its various steps:

Note: Nitrogen cycle is an important topic for higher classes and the diagram of nitrogen cycle class 9 will help you understand the various stages in detail.

What is the Nitrogen Cycle?

The nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical process that involves the conversion of nitrogen into various forms as it moves between the atmosphere, soil, and organisms. The cycle contains several steps, including nitrogen fixation, assimilation, ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which is then further transformed into nitrite and nitrate by nitrifying bacteria.

Plants assimilate these nitrogen compounds from the soil, and animals obtain nitrogen by consuming plants or other animals. Decomposer bacteria break down organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil. Denitrifying bacteria then convert nitrate back into atmospheric nitrogen, completing the cycle and maintaining a balance in nitrogen availability in ecosystems.

Bacteria Involved in the Nitrogen Cycle

Various bacteria that take part in the nitrogen cycle are:

• Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria – Azotobacter and Rhizobium
• Ammonifying Bacteria – Clostridium and Bacillus
• Nitrifying Bacteria – Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter
• Assimilatory Bacteria – Azotobacter and Clostridium
• Denitrifying Bacteria – Pseudomonas and Paracoccus
• Ammonium-Producing Bacteria – Nitrosomonas and Nitrococcus,
• Cyanobacteria

Importance of the Nitrogen Cycle

The nitrogen cycle is a biochemical process that converts nitrogen gas into a usable form for plants. It’s a vital part of the ecosystem and has a significant impact on the environment and fauna. The significance of the nitrogen cycle is as follows:

• Nitrogen is vital for amino acids, proteins, and DNA/RNA
• Nitrogen cycle supplies plants with nutrients for growth
• Nitrogen-fixing bacteria help plant growth by symbiotic relationship.
• Synthetic fertilizers enhance soil fertility for crops
• Nitrogen cycle maintains balance in ecosystems
• Prevents nitrogen runoff thereby reducing water pollution
• Regulates nitrogen levels in the atmosphere
• Helps balance greenhouse gases like nitrous oxide

Conclusion – Nitrogen Cycle Diagram

The nitrogen cycle steps involve nitrogen fixation, ammonification, nitrification, assimilation, and finally denitrification. The diagram of nitrogen cycle is crucial for understanding its various steps. Through these steps, nitrogen transitions between organic and inorganic states, supporting plant growth, sustaining ecosystems, and influencing water quality. With the help of labeled nitrogen cycle diagram and explanations, we learn the significance of the nitrogen cycle, various bacteria involved in the cycle, and their importance in the ecosystem.

FAQs on Nitrogen Cycle Diagram

What is the Diagram of Nitrogen Cycle Class 9?

The Class 9 nitrogen cycle diagram illustrates how nitrogen cycle has various steps like fixation, nitrification, assimilation, and denitrification in the environment. It helps students learn the role of about nitrogen cycle in the ecosystems.

What is the First Step of the Nitrogen Cycle, and How Does it Work?

The first step of the nitrogen cycle is nitrogen fixation. This step involves converting nitrogen gas (N2) from the atmosphere into ammonia (NH3). This process is carried out by special bacteria, such as Azotobacter and Rhizobium, which live in the roots of leguminous plants.

What is Assimilation in the Context of the Nitrogen Cycle?

In the nitrogen cycle, assimilation is the process by which plants and animals incorporate ammonia and NO3-. These compounds are formed through nitrogen fixation and nitrification.

What are the 7 Steps of the Nitrogen Cycle Diagram?

The seven steps of the nitrogen cycle are nitrogen fixation, ammonification, nitrification (nitrite and nitrate formation), assimilation, ammonium ion release, denitrification, and nitrate leaching.

Where is Nitrogen Found?

Nitrogen is found in the Earth’s atmosphere as a diatomic gas (N2), constituting about 78% of the atmosphere’s composition.

What Function do Plants Play in the Nitrogen Cycle, and How Important is it?

Plants play a critical role in the nitrogen cycle. They work with bacteria to fix nitrogen and use it for growth.

Who Discovered Nitrogen?

Scottish physician and chemist Daniel Rutherford discovered nitrogen in 1772. He removed oxygen and carbon dioxide from air and showed that the remaining gas would not support combustion or living organisms.

What are the 4 Steps in Nitrogen Cycling?

The four steps in nitrogen cycling include nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, and denitrification.

What is the Main Source of Nitrogen?

The main source of nitrogen is the atmosphere, where it exists primarily in the form of nitrogen gas (N2).

How are Humans Changing the Nitrogen Cycle?

The industrial activities such as fertilizer production and burning fossil fuels release excessive amounts of nitrogen into the environment, leading to pollution, ecosystem degradation, and biodiversity loss.