Ammonification
Ammonification
Ammonification (/əˌmɒnɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/) is a crucial process in the nitrogen cycle that involves the decomposition of organic nitrogenous matter. This process is primarily carried out by microbes, which convert organic nitrogen into ammonia.
Etymology
The term 'Ammonification' is derived from the chemical compound 'Ammonia', which is the end product of this process. The suffix '-fication' is from the Latin 'facere', meaning 'to make'.
Process
Ammonification is a process that occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi decompose organic nitrogenous material, such as proteins and nucleic acids, found in dead plants and animals. The organic nitrogen is converted into ammonia, which is then available for other organisms to use.
Importance
Ammonification is an essential part of the nitrogen cycle. It helps to convert organic nitrogen, which is not directly usable by plants, into ammonia, which can be taken up by plants and used to make proteins and other important compounds.
Related Terms
- Nitrogen cycle: The series of processes by which nitrogen and its compounds are interconverted in the environment and in living organisms.
- Ammonia: A colorless gas with a characteristic pungent smell. It is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula NH3.
- Decomposition: The process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic matter.
- Microorganisms: Any organism that is too small to be viewed by the unaided eye, such as bacteria, protozoa, and some fungi and algae.
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