Final answer:
The correct sequence for nitrification is ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct sequence for nitrification is as follows:
- Ammonification: Certain bacteria and fungi convert nitrogenous waste from living animals or decomposing organic compounds into ammonium ions (NH4+).
- Nitrification: Nitrifying bacteria, such as Nitrosomonas, oxidize ammonium ions (NH4+) to nitrites (NO2-), and then other nitrifying bacteria, like Nitrobacter, further oxidize the nitrites to nitrates (NO3-).
- Denitrification: Bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Clostridium, convert nitrates (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2), allowing it to re-enter the atmosphere.