The nitrogen cycle

The nitrogen cycle describes how nitrogen moves through the environment. Nitrogen from the air is converted by bacteria into forms plants can absorb, like ammonia and nitrate. Plants use these for growth, and animals eat the plants. When plants and animals die or produce waste, bacteria break down organic nitrogen back into ammonia and nitrate, which can be released into the soil or air. Other bacteria convert nitrogen compounds into nitrogen gas, releasing it back into the atmosphere. This cycle maintains balance, making nitrogen available for living organisms and returning it to the air, supporting life’s overall health.