Question

what statement most directly demonstrates a way that the geosphere is involved in the nitrogen cycle?
a. animals break down proteins and other nitrogen - containing compounds into waste products.
b. fossil fuels form when decaying organisms are buried underground for long periods.
c. some plants absorb nitrogen from the air and use it to form proteins.
d. bacteria that convert ammonia into nitrites and nitrates are found in the soil.

Explanation:

• Option A: Involves animals (biosphere), not geosphere. Eliminate.
• Option B: Fossil fuel formation is about carbon cycle more, and burial is part of geosphere but not directly nitrogen cycle. Eliminate.
• Option C: Plants absorbing nitrogen from air (atmosphere) for proteins, not geosphere. Eliminate.
• Option D: Soil is part of geosphere, and bacteria in soil converting ammonia (nitrogen - related) shows geosphere's role in nitrogen cycle. Correct.

Answer:

D. Bacteria that convert ammonia into nitrites and nitrates are found in the soil.