Decay and Decomposition

What are the main factors affecting decomposition?

• Temperature, moisture, oxygen availability, and the presence of decomposers

• pH levels, sunlight exposure, and soil type

• plant species, animal migration, and precipitation

• wind speed, humidity, and altitude

Name three types of microorganisms involved in decay.

• Viruses, protozoa, and worms

• Bacteria, fungi, and algae

How does decomposition occur in a forest ecosystem?

• Microorganisms break down dead plant and animal matter into simpler substances.

• Decomposition occurs through photosynthesis by plants in the forest ecosystem.

Explain the role of bacteria in decomposition.

• Bacteria help plants grow by providing essential nutrients

• Bacteria release oxygen into the atmosphere through decomposition

• Bacteria contribute to the formation of fossil fuels

• Bacteria break down organic matter into simpler compounds through decay.

Discuss the impact of temperature on the rate of decay.

• Lower temperatures increase the rate of decay

• The impact of temperature on the rate of decay is that it decreases the rate of decay

• Temperature has no impact on the rate of decay

• The impact of temperature on the rate of decay is that higher temperatures increase the rate of decay.

Describe the process of decomposition in a marine ecosystem.

• The process of decomposition in a marine ecosystem involves the release of oxygen into the water

• Decomposition in a marine ecosystem is caused by the growth of new organisms

• Decomposition in a marine ecosystem only occurs on the ocean floor

• The process of decomposition in a marine ecosystem involves the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms, releasing nutrients back into the water.

What is the significance of fungi in the decomposition process?

• Fungi slow down the decomposition process

• Fungi have no role in the decomposition process

• Fungi are important in breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients in the ecosystem.

• Fungi only contribute to pollution in the ecosystem

Compare and contrast decomposition in a desert ecosystem and a rainforest ecosystem.

• Decomposition in a desert ecosystem is slower, while decomposition in a rainforest ecosystem is faster.

• Decomposition in a rainforest ecosystem is non-existent, while decomposition in a desert ecosystem is rapid.

• Decomposition in a desert ecosystem is faster, while decomposition in a rainforest ecosystem is slower.

• Both desert and rainforest ecosystems have the same rate of decomposition.

How do earthworms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter?

• Earthworms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter by consuming and breaking it down in their digestive system, then excreting it as nutrient-rich castings.

• Earthworms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter by physically crushing it with their bodies

• Earthworms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter by emitting toxic chemicals that break down the matter

• Earthworms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter by attracting other organisms to consume it

Explain the concept of nutrient cycling in relation to decomposition.

• Decomposition is a key process in nutrient cycling, as it involves the breakdown of organic matter into simpler compounds that can be used by plants and other organisms.

• Nutrient cycling is not related to decomposition

• Decomposition only involves the breakdown of inorganic matter

• Plants and organisms do not benefit from the breakdown of organic matter