Living organisms can incorporate 1. nitrogen gas 2. ammonia 3. nitrites 4. nitrates. into their metabolism
Yes, living organisms can incorporate nitrogen gas, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates into their metabolism. Nitrogen gas is converted into ammonia through a process called nitrogen fixation, which is carried out by certain bacteria and archaea. Ammonia can be further converted into nitrites through nitrification, which is also performed by specific bacteria. Finally, nitrites are converted into nitrates by oxidative bacteria in the environment or through anaerobic processes, such as denitrification.
Once nitrates are available, living organisms, particularly plants, can take them up from the soil and incorporate them into their metabolism. Nitrates serve as a vital source of nitrogen for the synthesis of essential biomolecules, such as amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which are crucial for the growth and development of organisms.
Other organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, can also incorporate nitrogen from these forms into their metabolism for their own growth and energy needs. Overall, the nitrogen cycle involves the conversion of nitrogen gas into various nitrogen-containing compounds, which are then assimilated by living organisms for their metabolic processes.