# Explain how the nitrogen found in a dead animal's body is eventually made available to plants growing in the soil.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 1.6.2 Nutrient cycles · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Decomposers / bacteria / fungi break down the proteins in the dead animal
2. This releases ammonia / ammonium compounds into the soil
3. Nitrifying bacteria convert ammonia / ammonium compounds into nitrates
4. Plants absorb the nitrates from the soil through their roots

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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