Conclusion

To maintain the balance of nitrogen availability to all organisms in the environment, the denitrification process is important. Under anaerobic conditions, bacteria enzymatically transform nitrate (NO₃^–) to dinitrogen (N₂) gas via a series of metabolic reactions in the water-logged soil surface. Removal of excess nitrate from the environment helps in restoring nitrogen balance and reducing effects like eutrophication and diseases like cancer in humans. Nitrous oxide (N₂O), a byproduct of denitrification, is a greenhouse gas that contributes to the ozone depletion of the stratosphere. But excess denitrification may lead to a reduction in nitrogen availability to the plants, hence hindering plant growth. So a balanced nitrogen cycle is important for restoring nitrogen bioavailability for optimal use.