Pseudomonas convert

Options

A. `NH_3` to nitrates
B. Nitrates to nitrates
C. Nitrites to `NH_3`
D. Nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the role of Pseudomonas in the nitrogen cycle, specifically what it converts.

2. **Identifying the Processes**: The options provided are:
- Ammonia to nitrites
- Nitrites to nitrates
- Nitrites to ammonia
- Nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Ammonia to Nitrites**: This process is known as nitrification and is primarily carried out by bacteria called Nitrosomonas, not Pseudomonas.
- **Nitrites to Nitrates**: This step is also part of nitrification and is performed by bacteria known as Nitrobacter, again not Pseudomonas.
- **Nitrites to Ammonia**: This process is called ammonia oxidation and involves enzymes like cytochrome C nitrite reductase. Pseudomonas does not play a role here.
- **Nitrates to Atmospheric Nitrogen**: This process is known as denitrification, where nitrates are converted to nitrogen gas, and Pseudomonas (specifically Pseudomonas denitrificans) is involved in this conversion.

4. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is that Pseudomonas converts nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen, which is the process of denitrification.

5. **Final Answer**: Pseudomonas converts nitrates to atmospheric nitrogen.

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