Which of the following statements about the nitrogen cycle is false?
a. Nitrogen fixing bacteria exist on the root nodules of legumes and in the soil.
b. Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2).
c. Ammonification is the process by which ammonium ion (NH4+) is released from decomposing organic compounds.
d. Nitrification is the process by which nitrites (NO2-) are converted to ammonium ion (NH4+).
Answer: d. Nitrification is the process by which nitrites (NO2-) are converted to ammonium ion (NH4+).