Question

what part do decomposers play in the nitrogen cycle?

they return nitrogen to the atmosphere

they return nitrogen to the soil

they fix atmospheric nitrogen for plants

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Explanation:

1. Analyze the first option: Denitrifying bacteria return nitrogen to the atmosphere, not decomposers. So this option is incorrect.
2. Analyze the second option: Decomposers break down organic matter (like dead plants/animals) and release nitrogen - containing compounds back into the soil, making it available for plants. This matches the role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle.
3. Analyze the third option: Nitrogen - fixing bacteria (like Rhizobium) fix atmospheric nitrogen for plants, not decomposers. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

B. they return nitrogen to the soil