Question

which best describes how nitrogen in the soil is returned to the atmosphere? assimilation by plants nitrifying bacteria nitrogen - fixing bacteria denitrifying bacteria

Explanation:

Denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates in the soil into nitrogen gas, which is then released back into the atmosphere. Assimilation by plants takes up nitrogen from soil for growth. Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia to nitrites and nitrates. Nitrogen - fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen to a form usable by plants.

Answer:

denitrifying bacteria