Question

question 7 of 10
what is the name for runaway plant growth because of excess nitrogen?

a. nitrogen fixation
b. eutrophication
c. respiration
d. denitrification

Explanation:

• Nitrogen fixation: It is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (\(N_2\)) into ammonia (\(NH_3\)) or other nitrogen - containing compounds that plants can use. It is not related to excessive plant growth due to excess nitrogen.
• Eutrophication: Occurs when there is an excess of nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) in a water body. This excess of nutrients leads to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants. As these plants die and decompose, they consume oxygen in the water, which can lead to hypoxic (low - oxygen) conditions.
• Respiration: Is a metabolic process in which organisms convert organic matter (such as glucose) into energy, carbon dioxide, and water. It is a fundamental process for energy production in living organisms and has no relation to excessive plant growth due to excess nitrogen.
• Denitrification: Is the process by which nitrate (\(NO_3^-\)) is reduced to nitrogen gas (\(N_2\)) or nitrous oxide (\(N_2O\)) by bacteria in an anaerobic environment. It is part of the nitrogen cycle but not related to excessive plant growth.

Answer:

B. Eutrophication