Select the correct statement w.r.t denitrification

Options

A. is performed by autotrophs
B. Is a process of oxidation
C. Is favoured by anaerobic condition
D. Has no role in nitrogen cycle

Answer

To solve the question regarding denitrification, we need to analyze each of the provided statements and determine which one is correct. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Understand Denitrification
Denitrification is the biological process that converts nitrates (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2) or nitrous oxide (N2O), effectively removing nitrogen from the soil and returning it to the atmosphere. This process is crucial for the nitrogen cycle.

**Hint:** Denitrification involves the conversion of nitrates into gaseous forms of nitrogen.

### Step 2: Evaluate the Options
1. **Is performed by autotrophs**: This statement is incorrect. Denitrification is primarily performed by heterotrophic bacteria, not autotrophs.

**Hint:** Remember that autotrophs produce their own food, while heterotrophs rely on organic matter.

2. **Is a process of oxidation**: This statement is also incorrect. Denitrification is a reduction process, where nitrates are reduced to nitrogen gas.

**Hint:** Oxidation involves the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons.

3. **Is favored by anaerobic conditions**: This statement is correct. Denitrifying bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments, which are typically anaerobic conditions.

**Hint:** Think about environments where oxygen is limited; these are often where denitrification occurs.

4. **Has no role in the nitrogen cycle**: This statement is incorrect. Denitrification plays a significant role in the nitrogen cycle by returning nitrogen to the atmosphere, thus completing the cycle.

**Hint:** Consider the importance of nitrogen in ecosystems and how it cycles through different forms.

### Step 3: Conclusion
After evaluating all the options, the correct statement regarding denitrification is that it **is favored by anaerobic conditions**.

**Final Answer:** The correct statement with respect to denitrification is that it is favored by anaerobic conditions.