Decay Flashcards
1
Q
What is decomposition and what is it needed to do?
A
- The process by which dead organic matter is broken down by microorganisms known as decomposers
- Needed to recycle elements through an ecosystem
2
Q
What two groups of organisms are responsible for decomposition?
A
- Detritus feeders: small animals, like worms and woodlice, that feed on dead organic matter
- Decomposers: microorganisms, such as fungi and bacteria
3
Q
What factors affect the rate of decomposition?
A
- Oxygen availability
- Temperature
- Water content
4
Q
How does oxygen availability affect rate of decomposition?
A
- Higher oxygen = more aerobic respiration
- More aerobic respiration = more energy available
- More energy available = more decomposition
- More decomposition = higher rate of decay
5
Q
How does temperature affect rate of decomposition?
A
- Higher temperature = enxymes work faster
- Fast enezymes = higher rate of decay
- Too high temperatures will cause enzymes to denature and decrease the rate of decomposition
6
Q
How does water content affect rate of decomposition?
A
- Decomposers need water to survive, so rate of decay is highest in moist conditions
- If the water content is too high, the soil becomes waterlogged and the oxygen concentration decreases, causing the rate of decay to fall
7
Q
What is compost and how is it produced?
A
- Compost is a mixture of decayed organic material that is used to fertilise and improve soil
- It is made by leaving dead plant waste in perfect conditions and allowing it to decompose
8
Q
How is decomposition used to make biogas generators?
A
- Some microorganisms break down material anaerobically
- During anaerobic decay, a mixture of gases is produced, known as biogas. The main gas in this is methane
- When methan is combusted, it releases tons of energy
- In a biogas generator, animal and plant waste is left to decompose without any oxygen, to produce biogas
