Question

Process by which bacteria break organic matter into simple nutrients which are then returned to the soil

Answer 1

Decomposer bacteria break down organic matter into nutrients, including nitrogen, which plants use. They perform ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification, vital processes in the nitrogen cycle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which bacteria break down organic matter into simple nutrients that are returned to the soil is carried out by decomposers. These bacteria use organic substrates to obtain their energy, carbon, and essential nutrients needed for survival. Decomposer bacteria play a vital role in recycling nutrients like nitrogen back into the environment, which supports the growth of plants and the stability of ecosystems.

Ammonification is the process where decomposers convert the nitrogen found in dead organisms into ammonium ions. Then, through nitrification, nitrifying bacteria like Nitrosomonas turn ammonium ions into nitrites and nitrates, which plants can use. Finally, denitrification occurs when bacteria such as Pseudomonas and Clostridium convert nitrates back into nitrogen gas, completing the nitrogen cycle and returning it to the atmosphere.

Answer 2

answer is decomposition.

Decomposition is part of the nutrient cycle and its the process by which bacteria or fungi break down organic substances into simpler matter. This is a important process for life because it recycles the finite matter that occupies the biosphere.
There are other organisms that do this process, for example, worms.