Chapter 14, Problem 1RQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

Definition of the following terminologies:

(a) Nitrogen fixation

(b) Nitrogenase

(c) Nitrogen assimilation

(d) Amino acid pool

(e) Nitrogen cycle

Introduction:

Nitrogen is a major constituent of biological molecules, like nitrogenous bases and amino acids. The amino acids and nitrogenous bases are further utilized in the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, respectively. Nitrogen, present in the atmosphere, cannot be utilized as such and thus certain processes and enzymes make the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into useful forms.