How does one make decay occur?

Question 1

how does temperature affect decay? (website def.)

Answer 1

Temperature - High temperatures prevent decay, low temperatures slow decay. High temperatures destroy enzymes and proteins, killing the organisms responsible for decay. Low temperatures slow the rate of reaction of enzymes and will prevent growth and reproduction. (why we keep stuff in the fridge)

Question 2

How does oxygen affect decay? (website def.)

Answer 2

Oxygen - Lack of oxygen will slow or prevent most forms of decay Oxygen is needed for respiration by organisms. Some bacteria can survive without oxygen, such as those used in biogas generators.

Question 3

How does lack of water affect decay? (website def.)

Answer 3

Water - Lack of water will slow or prevent decay Water is needed for transport and to support reactions inside organisms. Decay organisms need water to digest their food.

Question 4

How do chemicals affect decay?

Answer 4

The absence of chemicals like alcohol and mould inhibitors. These chemicals destroy bacterial and fungal populations.

Question 5

Why is oxygen needed for bacteria?

Answer 5

It needed to support aerobic respiration, without it they produce lactic acids which stops decay from taking place, hence we seal stuff. As the volume of available oxygen increases, the rate of decomposition also increases