Ammonification
Definition
Ammonification is the conversion of organic nitrogen compounds into ammonia (NH3) by decomposer bacteria. It is an important step in the nitrogen cycle, where complex nitrogen-containing molecules are transformed into a form that can be used by plants.
Related terms
Nitrification: The process in which ammonia (NH3) is converted first to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-) by nitrifying bacteria.
Denitrification: The conversion of nitrates (NO3-) back into atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) through bacterial action.
Nitrogen fixation: The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into forms usable by plants through symbiotic relationships with certain bacteria.
"Ammonification" appears in:
Study guides (1)
AP Environmental Science - 1.5 The Nitrogen Cycle
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