Denitrification is The

Question

Denitrification is the A) conversion of nitrate or nitrite to N2by anaerobic respirers. B) oxidation of NH4⁺ to nitrate or nitrite by lithotrophs. C) conversion of N2to NH4⁺. D) removal of nitro groups from organic molecules. E) removal of amino groups from organic molecules.

Accepted Answer

Denitrification is the process by which bacteria convert nitrate or nitrite to nitrogen gas (N2) or nitrous oxide (N2O) in anaerobic conditions. This process is carried out by denitrifying bacteria that use nitrate or nitrite as an electron acceptor instead of oxygen in their respiratory chain. As a result, denitrification plays a critical role in the nitrogen cycle, regulating the availability of nitrogen for plant growth and reducing the potential for harmful effects of excess nitrates in water bodies.