B1.6 Waste Flashcards
What causes decay?
Materials are digested by microorganisms that release enzymes to break down compounds
What factors affect the rate of decay?
Moisture
Temperature
Oxygen available
( more = more )
Why is decay positive for the environment?
Decay causes the nutrients of a dead organism to be recycled and used for the growth of a new one
How is carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?
Green plants and algae remove carbon dioxide through photosynthesis
The carbon becomes molecules such as proteins and carbohydrates
How is carbon dioxide returned to the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?
Animals, plants and algae respire - releasing Carbon dioxide
It is also released through the burning of fossil fuels
How is carbon passed through organisms?
When an animal eats a plant, the carbon in the protein etc molecules is passed on
Carbon in animal faeces is eaten by other animals as well
What conditions cause decay to happen fastest?
Warm and moist
