Decay Flashcards
Why do materials decay
because they are broken down by micro-organisms ( bacteria and fungi )
Why is decay important to plants
it releases substances which plants need to grow
What are the three factors needed for decay
warmth, moisture and oxygen
Why does warmth have to be included for decay to happen
microorganisms need warmth to reproduce and grow
Why does moisture have to be included for decay to happen
microorganisms need moisture to reproduce and grow
Why does oxygen have to be included for decay to happen
microorganisms need oxygen to respire
What are detritivores
small invertebrate animals that help the process of decay
What are examples of detritivores
earthworms, earwigs, millipedes, beetles and woodlice
What do detritivores do
break up dead organic materials (detritus) increasing the surface area so speeding up decay
What should you put on a compost heap
cardboard, garden trimmings, egg shells, fruit and vegetables peels
What should you not put on a compost heap
non-biodegradable substances like plastic
Why is composting good for the environment
- enriches soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilisers
- encourages the production of beneficial bacteria and fungi
- reduces the methane emissions from landfills
- causes a decrease to carbon footprint
How are materials constantly cycled
- living things remove materials from the environment as they grow
- these materials are returned to the environment, either in waste materials or upon death and decay
