Nitrogen Cycle Worksheet
An 8th-grade science worksheet covering the key processes and components of the nitrogen cycle.
Includes
Standards
Topics
Nitrogen Cycle Exploration
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Refer to the nitrogen cycle diagram as needed.

Use the words in the bank to complete the sentences below.
1. The process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia or other compounds by microorganisms is called .
2. Plants absorb nitrogen compounds from the soil through a process called .
3. The conversion of ammonia into nitrites and then nitrates by soil bacteria is known as .
4. Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing ammonia in a process called .
5. The return of nitrogen gas to the from nitrates in the soil is called .
1. Which of the following organisms are primarily responsible for nitrogen fixation?
Fungi
Animals
Bacteria
Plants
2. Which form of nitrogen can plants directly absorb from the soil?
N2 gas
Ammonia (NH3)
Nitrates (NO3-)
Nitrites (NO2-)
1. Explain the role of decomposers in the nitrogen cycle.
2. Describe one way human activities can impact the nitrogen cycle.
1. The majority of nitrogen on Earth is found in the soil.
True
False
2. Lightning plays a role in converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form.
True
False
Match each term with its correct definition.
1. Nitrogen Fixation
a. Conversion of nitrates back into nitrogen gas.
2. Nitrification
b. Absorption of nitrogen compounds by plants.
3. Assimilation
c. Conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia.
4. Denitrification
d. Conversion of ammonia to nitrites and nitrates.