The Nitrogen Cycle
Nitrogen (N) is an element that is essential for plants and animals to grow and reproduce. It is the protein all living things need for growth and luckily for us it is everywhere! 80% of the earths atmosphere is made up of nitrogen and it moves around the earth in a cycle. But the important thing to know is that not all nitrogen (N) can be used by plants. Nitrogen in the atmosphere is made up of two parts (atoms) that are glued together very tightly. It needs to go through a process called fixation where these two parts are broken apart and then turned into something called nitrates and nitrites. This happens in the soil and this is where the DECOMPOSERS come in. They fix the nitrogen by consuming organic matter and through the digestion fixation happens. Once the nitrogen (N) has been fixed PRODUCERS take up this nitrogen along with other nutrients that have been produced by DECOMPOSERS in the soil and the cycle begins again. You can see why it is important for us to learn how this all works and can make sure the cycle can continue in a way that best sustains life on earth.
Here are some links to information which will help you learn more about the nitrogen cycle and remember to include how the Nitrogen cycle affects the group you have been assigned to in our drama role play.
Here are some links to information which will help you learn more about the nitrogen cycle and remember to include how the Nitrogen cycle affects the group you have been assigned to in our drama role play.
Image at top of page retrieved from: http://www.realtrees4kids.org/images/6-8images/nitrogencycle2.gif
YouTube clip retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaFVfHftzpI
YouTube clip retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaFVfHftzpI