Nitrification

Nitrification is a natural process where special bacteria turn nitrogen from the air into nitrates. Nitrates are important because plants need them to grow and survive. Nitrates also help to make soil healthy. To do this, two types of bacteria are needed: ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria. The first bacteria breaks down ammonia, which is a type of nitrogen, and turns it into nitrite. The second bacteria then breaks down the nitrite and turns it into nitrate. The nitrates end up in the soil, where plants can use them to get energy. In this way, nitrification helps to keep the environment healthy and makes sure the plants get the nutrients they need to grow.