Final answer:
Nitrogen is a macronutrient in plants and is involved in various essential processes. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants. Plant roots can absorb nitrogen as ammonium or nitrate ions, and a deficiency can lead to yellowing of leaves.
Step-by-step explanation:
In plants, nitrogen is a macronutrient and plays several crucial roles. Firstly, nitrogen is a component of nucleic acids, proteins, hormones, and coenzymes. Secondly, nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3), which can be absorbed by plants. Thirdly, plant roots can absorb nitrogen in the form of ammonium ions (NH4+) or nitrate ions (NO3-). Finally, nitrogen deficiency in plants can cause their leaves to turn yellow.