Find a correct set of requirements to fix a molecule of atmospheric nitrogen (`N_2`)

Options

A. `8e^(-), 8H^(+), 8ATP `
B. ` 16e^(-), 16H^(+), 16ATP `
C. `8e^(-), 8H^(+), 16 ATP `
D. ` 16 e ^(-), 16 H ^(+), 8 ATP `

Answer

To find the correct set of requirements to fix a molecule of atmospheric nitrogen (N₂), we will analyze the process of nitrogen fixation step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Nitrogen Fixation**:
- Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃) which can be utilized by plants.
- The general reaction for nitrogen fixation can be summarized as:
\[ N_2 + 8 \text{H}^+ + 8 \text{e}^- + 16 \text{ATP} \rightarrow 2 \text{NH}_3 + \text{H}_2 + 16 \text{ADP} + 16 \text{P}_i \]
- This equation indicates that one molecule of N₂ requires specific inputs to be converted into ammonia.

2. **Identifying Requirements**:
- From the equation, we can identify the requirements:
- **Electrons (e⁻)**: 8 electrons are needed.
- **Hydrogen ions (H⁺)**: 8 hydrogen ions are required.
- **ATP**: 16 ATP molecules are necessary for the reaction.

3. **Evaluating Options**:
- Now, we will evaluate the options provided:
- **Option 1**: 8 electrons, 8 hydrogen ions, 8 ATP - This is incorrect because it states 8 ATP instead of 16.
- **Option 2**: 16 electrons - This is incorrect as only 8 electrons are needed.
- **Option 3**: 8 electrons, 8 hydrogen ions, 16 ATP - This is correct as it matches the requirements.
- **Option 4**: 16 electrons - This is also incorrect.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The correct set of requirements to fix one molecule of atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) is:
- 8 electrons
- 8 hydrogen ions
- 16 ATP

### Final Answer:
The correct set of requirements to fix a molecule of atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) is:
- **8 electrons**
- **8 hydrogen ions**
- **16 ATP**