Question

What is nitrification? Name two nitrifying bacteria of soil.

Answer 1

Nitrification refers to the phenomenon of conversion of ammonia into NO₂^- (nitrite) and then into NO₃^- (nitrates). 

Two nitrifying bacteria are : 

(i) Nitrosomoras : It converts ammonía (NH₃) into nitrites (NO₂^-). 

2NH₃ + 3O₂ → 2H+ 2H₂O + 2NO₂^- 

(ii) Nitrobucter : It converts nitrites into nitrates. 

2NO₂^- + O₂ → 2NO₃