The correct answer is: C. Liberation of nitrogen-formation of nitrates-formation of nitrites-liberation of ammonia.
The nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical cycle that involves the conversion of nitrogen into various chemical forms. The cycle is essential for life because nitrogen is a key component of proteins, nucleic acids, and other biological molecules.
The nitrogen cycle begins with the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen by bacteria. This process converts nitrogen gas into ammonia, which can then be used by plants. Plants use ammonia to make proteins and other organic compounds. Animals eat plants and use the nitrogen in the plants to make their own proteins and other organic compounds.
When plants and animals die, their bodies decompose and the nitrogen in them is released back into the environment. Some of this nitrogen is released as ammonia, while some is released as nitrates. Nitrates are then taken up by plants and used to make proteins and other organic compounds.
The nitrogen cycle is a complex process that is essential for life. The cycle is constantly being disrupted by human activities, such as agriculture and deforestation. These activities can lead to the release of too much nitrogen into the environment, which can cause problems such as eutrophication and smog.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: Liberation of ammonia-formation of nitrites-formation of nitrates-liberation of nitrogen. This option is incorrect because it does not include the step where nitrogen is fixed from the atmosphere.
- Option B: Liberation of nitrogen-liberation of ammonia-formation of nitrites- formation of nitrates. This option is incorrect because it does not include the step where nitrates are taken up by plants.
- Option C: Liberation of nitrogen-formation of nitrates-formation of nitrites-liberation of ammonia. This option is correct because it includes all of the steps in the nitrogen cycle.
- Option D: Formation of nitrates-formation of nitrites-liberation of nitrates-liberation of nitrates. This option is incorrect because it does not include the step where nitrogen is fixed from the atmosphere.