Bacterial conversion of organic nitrogenous or protein matter into ammonium compounds is called

Options

A. denitrification
B. nitrification
C. ammonification
D. nitrogen fixation

Answer

To answer the question regarding the bacterial conversion of organic nitrogenous or protein matter into ammonium compounds, we can break down the options provided and analyze each one step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the process by which bacteria convert organic nitrogenous compounds or proteins into ammonium compounds.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A: Denitrification**: This process involves the conversion of nitrites or nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen. It does not relate to the conversion of organic nitrogenous matter into ammonium.
- **Option B: Nitrification**: This is the process where ammonia is converted into nitrites and then into nitrates. It involves the transformation of nitrogen compounds but does not directly convert organic matter into ammonium.
- **Option C: Ammonification**: This process specifically refers to the conversion of organic nitrogenous compounds (like proteins) into ammonia. This is the direct conversion that the question is asking about.
- **Option D: Nitrogen Fixation**: This process involves the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be utilized by plants, such as ammonia or nitrates. It does not involve the conversion of organic nitrogenous matter.

3. **Identifying the Correct Answer**: Based on the analysis, the process that specifically converts organic nitrogenous or protein matter into ammonium compounds is **Ammonification**.

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is **Option C: Ammonification**.

### Final Answer:
The bacterial conversion of organic nitrogenous or protein matter into ammonium compounds is called **Ammonification**.

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