Biogeochemical cycles: Identify why atmospheric N₂ remains approximately constant in the biosphere. Full question: N₂ content is kept nearly constant in the biosphere due to which natural process? Choose the correct option.
General Knowledge
Biology
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AThe nitrogen cycle (balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification)
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BThe carbon cycle
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CThe oxygen cycle
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DThe water cycle
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EContinuous volcanic emissions only
Answer
Correct Answer: The nitrogen cycle (balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification)
Explanation
Concept / ApproachAtmospheric N₂ is stabilized because nitrogen fixation (by diazotrophs/lightning) converts N₂ to bioavailable forms while denitrification (by anaerobic bacteria) returns nitrate/nitrite back to N₂. This dynamic nitrogen cycle keeps atmospheric N₂ levels relatively constant.
Final AnswerThe nitrogen cycle (balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification).