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12
0
L
Lucinda Williams
16/07/2025
Biology
The Nitrogen Cycle - GCSE
759
•
16 Jul 2025
•
Nitrogen Cycle GCSE: Diagrams, Questions & Biology Answers
L
Lucinda Williams
@lucindawilliams_tzaw
Restoring Soil Fertility and Agricultural Practices
This page delves deeper into the methods used to restore soil fertility and various agricultural practices related to the nitrogen cycle. It is particularly relevant for students studying GCSE Biology Edexcel, GCSE AQA, or preparing for GCSE questions on this topic.
The page begins by discussing artificial fertilizers, which are a common method of adding nitrates to the soil. These fertilizers are produced through industrial processes and contain nitrates and other mineral nutrients. They are typically applied as granules, powder, or liquid, and are spread by tractors.
Vocabulary: Artificial fertilizers are man-made substances containing nitrogen and other nutrients, designed to enhance soil fertility and promote plant growth.
The advantages and disadvantages of artificial fertilizers are outlined:
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Known amount of nutrients added to crop
- Dissolves easily in soil water
Cons:
- Run-off can cause eutrophication of waterways
Highlight: The use of artificial fertilizers can lead to environmental issues such as water pollution if not managed properly.
The page then discusses natural fertilizers, which are nitrogen-rich substances derived from animals and plants . The pros and cons of natural fertilizers are also presented:
Pros:
- Useful way of clearing animal waste
- Cheaper than artificial fertilizer
Cons:
- Must be spread before the new crop is planted
- Possibly unknown quantity of nutrients
Example: Manure is a common natural fertilizer that can improve soil fertility but requires careful management in terms of timing and quantity.
The concept of crop rotation is introduced as another method to maintain soil fertility. Crop rotation involves growing different crops in a field in different years. A table is provided showing examples of crop rotation patterns over three years.
Definition: Crop rotation is the practice of planting different crops sequentially on the same plot of land to improve soil health, optimize nutrients in the soil, and combat pest and weed pressure.
The page highlights the importance of legumes in crop rotation. Legumes, such as beans, peas, soybeans, and clover, have a special ability to fix nitrogen in the soil through their root nodules.
Vocabulary: Legumes are plants in the family Fabaceae that have the ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules.
Finally, the concepts of fallow land and green manure are explained:
- Fallow: Leaving the field with no crop for a year
- Green Manure: Growing a non-crop legume, such as clover, then ploughing it into the soil
These practices are important for students to understand when studying the nitrogen cycle GCSE OCR or nitrogen cycle GCSE WJEC syllabi, as they demonstrate practical applications of nitrogen cycle knowledge in agriculture.
The Nitrogen Cycle and Its Importance in Biology
The nitrogen cycle is a fundamental biological process that plays a crucial role in the circulation of nitrogen through various ecosystems. This page provides an overview of the nitrogen cycle and its significance in biology, particularly in the context of GCSE Biology.
The nitrogen cycle is illustrated through a diagram showing the various stages and transformations of nitrogen. It begins with nitrogen in the air, which is then fixed by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil or through lightning. This fixed nitrogen is then converted into nitrates in the soil, which plants can absorb and use to create proteins. These plant proteins are then consumed by animals, continuing the cycle.
Definition: Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a more complex form that plants can uptake and use.
The cycle also includes the breakdown of proteins in animals and plants by decay bacteria and fungi, which convert the nitrogen back into ammonia in the soil. Nitrifying bacteria then convert this ammonia back into nitrates, completing the cycle.
Highlight: The nitrogen cycle is crucial for agriculture, as it directly impacts soil fertility and crop yields.
The page also discusses the importance of nitrogen in agriculture and the challenges faced when crops are harvested. When crops are cleared from fields, nitrogen is removed from the soil, leading to a decrease in nitrate concentration. This can result in lower yields for new crops.
Example: After harvesting, the nitrate concentration in soil falls, which can lead to reduced crop yields in subsequent plantings.
To address this issue, several methods are used to restore soil fertility:
- Artificial fertilizers
- Natural fertilizers
- Crop rotation, including legume crops or leaving land fallow
Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are crucial for students studying GCSE combined science or GCSE Biology to understand.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Nitrogen Cycle GCSE: Diagrams, Questions & Biology Answers
L
Lucinda Williams
@lucindawilliams_tzaw
The nitrogen cycleis a crucial biological process that involves the transformation and circulation of nitrogen in various forms throughout the environment. This cycle is essential for life on Earth, as nitrogen is a key component of DNA and proteins... Show more
Restoring Soil Fertility and Agricultural Practices
This page delves deeper into the methods used to restore soil fertility and various agricultural practices related to the nitrogen cycle. It is particularly relevant for students studying GCSE Biology Edexcel, GCSE AQA, or preparing for GCSE questions on this topic.
The page begins by discussing artificial fertilizers, which are a common method of adding nitrates to the soil. These fertilizers are produced through industrial processes and contain nitrates and other mineral nutrients. They are typically applied as granules, powder, or liquid, and are spread by tractors.
Vocabulary: Artificial fertilizers are man-made substances containing nitrogen and other nutrients, designed to enhance soil fertility and promote plant growth.
The advantages and disadvantages of artificial fertilizers are outlined:
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Known amount of nutrients added to crop
- Dissolves easily in soil water
Cons:
- Run-off can cause eutrophication of waterways
Highlight: The use of artificial fertilizers can lead to environmental issues such as water pollution if not managed properly.
The page then discusses natural fertilizers, which are nitrogen-rich substances derived from animals and plants . The pros and cons of natural fertilizers are also presented:
Pros:
- Useful way of clearing animal waste
- Cheaper than artificial fertilizer
Cons:
- Must be spread before the new crop is planted
- Possibly unknown quantity of nutrients
Example: Manure is a common natural fertilizer that can improve soil fertility but requires careful management in terms of timing and quantity.
The concept of crop rotation is introduced as another method to maintain soil fertility. Crop rotation involves growing different crops in a field in different years. A table is provided showing examples of crop rotation patterns over three years.
Definition: Crop rotation is the practice of planting different crops sequentially on the same plot of land to improve soil health, optimize nutrients in the soil, and combat pest and weed pressure.
The page highlights the importance of legumes in crop rotation. Legumes, such as beans, peas, soybeans, and clover, have a special ability to fix nitrogen in the soil through their root nodules.
Vocabulary: Legumes are plants in the family Fabaceae that have the ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules.
Finally, the concepts of fallow land and green manure are explained:
- Fallow: Leaving the field with no crop for a year
- Green Manure: Growing a non-crop legume, such as clover, then ploughing it into the soil
These practices are important for students to understand when studying the nitrogen cycle GCSE OCR or nitrogen cycle GCSE WJEC syllabi, as they demonstrate practical applications of nitrogen cycle knowledge in agriculture.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Nitrogen Cycle and Its Importance in Biology
The nitrogen cycle is a fundamental biological process that plays a crucial role in the circulation of nitrogen through various ecosystems. This page provides an overview of the nitrogen cycle and its significance in biology, particularly in the context of GCSE Biology.
The nitrogen cycle is illustrated through a diagram showing the various stages and transformations of nitrogen. It begins with nitrogen in the air, which is then fixed by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil or through lightning. This fixed nitrogen is then converted into nitrates in the soil, which plants can absorb and use to create proteins. These plant proteins are then consumed by animals, continuing the cycle.
Definition: Nitrogen fixation is the process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a more complex form that plants can uptake and use.
The cycle also includes the breakdown of proteins in animals and plants by decay bacteria and fungi, which convert the nitrogen back into ammonia in the soil. Nitrifying bacteria then convert this ammonia back into nitrates, completing the cycle.
Highlight: The nitrogen cycle is crucial for agriculture, as it directly impacts soil fertility and crop yields.
The page also discusses the importance of nitrogen in agriculture and the challenges faced when crops are harvested. When crops are cleared from fields, nitrogen is removed from the soil, leading to a decrease in nitrate concentration. This can result in lower yields for new crops.
Example: After harvesting, the nitrate concentration in soil falls, which can lead to reduced crop yields in subsequent plantings.
To address this issue, several methods are used to restore soil fertility:
- Artificial fertilizers
- Natural fertilizers
- Crop rotation, including legume crops or leaving land fallow
Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are crucial for students studying GCSE combined science or GCSE Biology to understand.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user