Decomposition Quiz

What is decomposition in the context of an ecosystem?

• The process of combining organic substances to form new compounds

• The conversion of solid waste into reusable materials

• The process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic matter

• The creation of energy through the consumption of organic matter

Which of the following is NOT a decomposer?

• Fungi

• Earthworm

• Lion

• Bacteria

What role do fungi play in the decomposition process?

• They consume living plants and animals

• They break down complex organic material into simpler substances

• They produce oxygen as a byproduct of decomposition

• They pollinate plants to help them reproduce

Why are decomposers important in soil?

• They increase soil temperature

• They decrease soil fertility

• They help in nutrient cycling by breaking down dead matter

• They make the soil less porous

Which of the following tasks are carried out by bacteria during decomposition?

• Breaking down organic material into smaller pieces

• Combining organic material into larger molecules

• Removing oxygen from the soil

• Adding nutrients to the soil

Which of the following is NOT a function of decomposers in a food web?

• Breaking down dead organisms to release nutrients

• Preying on live animals

• Recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem

• Helping in soil formation

What happens if decomposers are removed from an ecosystem?

• Nutrient cycling speeds up

• There is an increase in the population of primary consumers

• Accumulation of dead matter and a decrease in soil fertility

• The ecosystem becomes more resilient

Which of the following best describes the role of earthworms in soil?

• They compact the soil (smashing it together), making it less porous

• They consume live plant roots, reducing plant growth

• They aerate (add air) and mix the soil, enhancing nutrient cycling

• They increase soil alkalinity (making it more basic/ less acidic), making it less suitable for plant growth

What is the primary role of bacteria in the carbon cycle?

• Converting carbon dioxide into oxygen

• Breaking down organic matter and releasing carbon dioxide

• Fixing carbon dioxide into sugars through photosynthesis

• Transforming inorganic carbon into organic compounds

In a food web, decomposers primarily consume:

• Only live plants

• Only live animals

• Dead organic matter

• Inorganic matter