The process by which bacteria convert nitrates and nitrites in soil back into nitrogen gas, returning nitrogen to the atmosphere. This process occurs in oxygen-poor environments and is part of the nitrogen cycle.
From Latin 'de-' meaning 'removal' and 'nitrification' from 'nitrum' (saltpeter) plus '-fication' (making). The term emerged in the late 19th century when scientists discovered bacteria could reverse the nitrogen fixation process.
Denitrification is like nature's recycling program running in reverse! While we often focus on getting nitrogen into soil for plants, this process actually removes it, which is crucial for preventing toxic nitrate buildup in waterways.
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