Question

Identify three beneficial results of symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

a) Enhanced carbon uptake, increased plant growth, and improved soil fertility
b) Improved nitrogen uptake, increased plant growth, and reduced soil erosion
c) Increased oxygen production, enhanced plant growth, and reduced water loss
d) Enhanced mineral uptake, increased plant growth, and reduced nutrient recycling

Answer 1

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation provides three beneficial results: plants gain access to a continuous supply of nitrogen, soils become naturally fertilized, and bacteria benefit from plant-produced carbohydrates.

Step-by-step explanation:

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is a process in which soil bacteria called rhizobia interact with legume roots to form nodules, where nitrogen fixation takes place. There are three beneficial results of symbiotic nitrogen fixation:

1. Plants benefit from an endless supply of nitrogen - Nitrogen fixation allows plants to access nitrogen from the atmosphere, which is essential for their growth and development.
2. Soils benefit from being naturally fertilized - As the plant roots leave behind some of the biologically available nitrogen, the soil becomes naturally enriched and fertile.
3. Bacteria benefit from using photosynthates from plants - The rhizobia bacteria receive carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis by the plants, which serve as a source of energy and a protected niche for their growth.