Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What is denitrification the conversion of?

1. Organic nitrogen forms

2. Nitrate

3. Ammonia

4. Phosphate

The correct answer is: Nitrate

Denitrification is a crucial process in the nitrogen cycle, specifically involving the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2) or, to a lesser extent, nitrous oxide (N2O). This process is primarily carried out by microorganisms in anaerobic conditions, such as in wet soils or underwater environments, where oxygen is limited. During denitrification, nitrate, which is a more oxidized form of nitrogen that plants can uptake, is reduced to gaseous nitrogen forms, effectively removing nitrogen from the soil and returning it to the atmosphere. Understanding the role of denitrification is essential in agricultural practices as it helps manage nitrogen levels in soils, influencing both crop productivity and environmental health. Excessive nitrate in the soil can lead to leaching and water pollution, making denitrification a vital process for mitigating such issues.