The nitrogen cycle is the continuous series of natural processes by which nitrogen passes from the air to the soil, to plants, and ultimately to sustain all animal life, and then return back to the air or soil through decay or denitrification (the loss of nitrogen). Nitrogen is basic element of all living cells. Through nitrogen fixation, nitrogen gas is converted into inorganic nitrogen compound to be used by plants, animals, and people. This conversion is accomplished through the nitrogen cycle in which nitrogen as a gas is carried to the earth’s surface in precipitation. Nitrogen is then used by plant and incorporated in their tissues as plant protein. The nitrogen then passes through the food chain to animals and people. Human intrusion in the nitrogen cycle can result in more or less nitrogen being cycle as part of the nature system. For example, the cultivation of croplands, harvesting of crops, and cutting of forests has caused a decline of the natural occurring nitrogen in the soil. Soil nitrogen can be replenished with manufactured nitrogen fertilizer, animal manure and legumes. Nitrogen from over-fertilization of plant life, industrial discharges, and human and animal waster discharges can add too much nitrogen to the natural system and may have an impact on soil, water, and air quality.
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