key term - Ammonification

Definition

Ammonification is the conversion of organic nitrogen compounds into ammonia (NH3) by decomposer bacteria. It is an important step in the nitrogen cycle, where complex nitrogen-containing molecules are transformed into a form that can be used by plants.

Related terms

Nitrification:

The process in which ammonia (NH3) is converted first to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-) by nitrifying bacteria.

Denitrification:

The conversion of nitrates (NO3-) back into atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) through bacterial action.

Nitrogen fixation: The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into forms usable by plants through symbiotic relationships with certain bacteria.