Which process involves recycling nitrogen in an ecosystem?

The nitrogen cycle is the process that involves recycling nitrogen in an ecosystem. Nitrogen is an essential element for all living organisms as it is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. The cycle begins with nitrogen fixation, where certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which can then be utilized by plants.

Once plants take up ammonia or related compounds, nitrogen is incorporated into the plant’s tissues. When animals consume these plants, nitrogen is transferred through the food chain. After organisms die or excrete waste, decomposers break down organic matter, returning nitrogen to the soil in forms that can once again be taken up by plants, thus continuing the cycle.

This recycling process ensures that nitrogen remains available within the ecosystem, which is crucial for sustaining life. Other processes, such as photosynthesis, the carbon cycle, and the sulfur cycle, do not focus specifically on nitrogen and its transformations within ecological systems.