Which of these nitrogen cycle processes converts ammonia from dead plants into nitrogen forms?

Options

A. Ammonification
B. Denitrification
C. Assimilation
D. Nitrification

Answer

To answer the question "Which of these nitrogen cycle processes converts ammonia from dead plants into nitrogen forms?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Nitrogen Cycle**: The nitrogen cycle is a series of processes that convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that can be used by living organisms. This includes the conversion of nitrogen gas into ammonia, nitrates, and other nitrogen compounds.

2. **Identify the Processes**: The question provides four options: Ammonification, Denitrification, Assimilation, and Nitrification. We need to understand what each of these processes entails.

3. **Define Ammonification**: Ammonification is the process where dead plants and animals decompose, and their organic nitrogen is converted into ammonia. This process is crucial as it recycles nitrogen back into the ecosystem.

4. **Define Denitrification**: Denitrification is the process where nitrates are converted back into nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This does not involve ammonia directly from dead plants.

5. **Define Assimilation**: Assimilation is the process where plants and animals take up nitrates and ammonia from the soil to create proteins and nucleic acids. This process does not convert ammonia but rather utilizes it.

6. **Define Nitrification**: Nitrification is the process where ammonia is oxidized to form nitrites and then nitrates. This process transforms ammonia into other nitrogen forms but does not directly involve the decomposition of dead plants.

7. **Conclusion**: Since the question specifically asks about the conversion of ammonia from dead plants into nitrogen forms, the correct answer is **Ammonification**. This is the process that directly converts organic nitrogen from dead matter into ammonia.

### Final Answer:
**Ammonification** is the nitrogen cycle process that converts ammonia from dead plants into nitrogen forms.

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