Question

some bacteria live in the roots of plants like soybeans and peas. what is the role of these bacteria in the nitrogen - cycle? to absorb nitrogen - containing compounds from the soil to release free nitrogen into the atmosphere to break down nitrogen - containing compounds in dead organisms to convert free nitrogen into usable nitrogen

Explanation:

These bacteria are nitrogen - fixing bacteria. They convert free nitrogen (N₂) in the air into ammonia (NH₃) or other usable nitrogen - containing compounds that plants can take up. This is crucial for plant growth as nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plants.

Answer:

to convert free nitrogen into usable nitrogen