Final answer:
Nitrogen moves from the lithosphere to the atmosphere through denitrification, which is conducted by bacteria as part of the nitrogen cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nitrogen moves from the lithosphere (geosphere) to the atmosphere through a process known as denitrification. This process is conducted by certain species of bacteria that convert nitrates (NO3) into nitrogen gas (N₂), thus returning nitrogen to the atmosphere. Denitrification is an essential part of the nitrogen cycle, which is a vital cycle for life on Earth, as it ensures the flow and recycling of nitrogen through the ecosystem.