What is the primary outcome of denitrification in the nitrogen cycle?

The primary outcome of denitrification in the nitrogen cycle is the release of nitrogen gas back into the atmosphere. This process occurs when denitrifying bacteria convert nitrates (NO3-) and nitrites (NO2-) in the soil back into nitrogen gas (N2). This is an important step in the nitrogen cycle as it helps to regulate nitrogen levels in the soil and prevents the accumulation of excess nitrates, which can lead to problems such as water pollution. By returning nitrogen to the atmosphere, denitrification contributes to the balance of nitrogen in ecosystems and minimizes the risk of hypoxia in aquatic environments. This release of nitrogen gas is a critical part of the nitrogen cycle, maintaining the cycle's continuity and allowing for a balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification.