What is nitrogen fixation? Why do plants need to fix nitrogen?

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen $(N_2)$ into usable forms like ammonia $(NH_3)$ or oxides of nitrogen $(NO_x)$.
Plants require nitrogen to synthesize essential biological molecules such as proteins,nucleic acids ($DNA$ and $RNA$),and chlorophyll.
Although nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere,plants cannot absorb it directly in its gaseous form $(N_2)$ because the triple covalent bond between nitrogen atoms is extremely stable and difficult to break. Therefore,they rely on nitrogen fixation to convert it into a form that can be assimilated by their roots.

Explore More

Similar Questions

$(a)$ What do the blanks $1, 2, 3, 4$ and $5$ in the given cycle stand for?
$(b)$ Name two natural and one man-made process by which $CO_2$ returns to the atmosphere.
$(c)$ Carbon dioxide is necessary for plants but it is also a pollutant. Justify your answer.

How is acid rain caused?

Name any four carbon-containing molecules which are essential to life forms.

Define humus and state its function.

$(a)$ Why does the Mathura refinery pose problems to the Taj Mahal?
$(b)$ Why do lichens not occur in Delhi,whereas they commonly grow in Manali or Darjeeling?
$(c)$ What is smog? Mention its harmful effects.

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo