How is nitrogen gas in the atmosphere converted to a form usable by living creatures? Select all that apply. transpiration O sublimation V lightning O fixation

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**Question:**
How is nitrogen gas in the atmosphere converted to a form usable by living creatures?

**Options: Select all that apply.**
- [ ] transpiration
- [ ] sublimation
- [x] lightning
- [ ] fixation

---

**Explanation:**

This question addresses the process through which atmospheric nitrogen is rendered accessible to living organisms. The correct answer here is "lightning." Below, we delve into each option presented:

1. **Transpiration:**
   - **Definition:** The process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released to the atmosphere.
   - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Transpiration does not play a role in converting atmospheric nitrogen to a usable form.

2. **Sublimation:**
   - **Definition:** The transition of a substance directly from the solid to the gas phase without passing through the liquid phase.
   - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Sublimation is not involved in the nitrogen conversion process.

3. **Lightning:**
   - **Definition:** A natural electrical discharge in the atmosphere.
   - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** When lightning strikes, the high-energy environment allows nitrogen molecules (N₂) to react with oxygen (O₂) to form nitrogen oxides (NOx), which dissolve in rain and form nitrates. These nitrates are then usable forms of nitrogen for plants.

4. **Fixation:**
   - **Definition:** The process by which nitrogen in the atmosphere is converted into ammonia (NH₃) or other molecules that plants can absorb.
   - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Nitrogen fixation can be performed biologically by certain bacteria and archaea, as well as through industrial processes. While a crucial part of the nitrogen cycle, this term would better fit if used alone without conflicting with the stated options.

Understanding the processes through which nitrogen becomes accessible helps to appreciate the balance in ecosystems and the vital role of natural phenomena and microorganisms in sustaining life.
Transcribed Image Text:**Question:** How is nitrogen gas in the atmosphere converted to a form usable by living creatures? **Options: Select all that apply.** - [ ] transpiration - [ ] sublimation - [x] lightning - [ ] fixation --- **Explanation:** This question addresses the process through which atmospheric nitrogen is rendered accessible to living organisms. The correct answer here is "lightning." Below, we delve into each option presented: 1. **Transpiration:** - **Definition:** The process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released to the atmosphere. - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Transpiration does not play a role in converting atmospheric nitrogen to a usable form. 2. **Sublimation:** - **Definition:** The transition of a substance directly from the solid to the gas phase without passing through the liquid phase. - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Sublimation is not involved in the nitrogen conversion process. 3. **Lightning:** - **Definition:** A natural electrical discharge in the atmosphere. - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** When lightning strikes, the high-energy environment allows nitrogen molecules (N₂) to react with oxygen (O₂) to form nitrogen oxides (NOx), which dissolve in rain and form nitrates. These nitrates are then usable forms of nitrogen for plants. 4. **Fixation:** - **Definition:** The process by which nitrogen in the atmosphere is converted into ammonia (NH₃) or other molecules that plants can absorb. - **Relevance to Nitrogen Conversion:** Nitrogen fixation can be performed biologically by certain bacteria and archaea, as well as through industrial processes. While a crucial part of the nitrogen cycle, this term would better fit if used alone without conflicting with the stated options. Understanding the processes through which nitrogen becomes accessible helps to appreciate the balance in ecosystems and the vital role of natural phenomena and microorganisms in sustaining life.
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