What is atmospheric nitrogen fixation?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Nitrogen Fixation**: Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a form that plants can use, such as nitrates (NO₃⁻), nitrites (NO₂⁻), or ammonia (NH₃).

2. **Role of Atmospheric Nitrogen**: Atmospheric nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere but is not directly usable by most living organisms. Therefore, it needs to be converted into a usable form through nitrogen fixation.

3. **Process During Lightning**: One way atmospheric nitrogen is fixed is during lightning storms. The high temperatures and energy from lightning convert atmospheric nitrogen into nitrogen oxides (NO and NO₂). These nitrogen oxides then react with water in the atmosphere to form nitrates.

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