Decay and what speeds the rate of decay up

Question 1

What is the definition of decay?

Answer 1

Elements that are broken down by microorganisms

Question 2

What is the process of decay?

Answer 2

1. Plants take elements like carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen from the soil/air and turn them into complex compounds. These pass through the food chain when the plants are eaten.
2. These elements are returned to the environments in waste products produced by the organisms, or when the organisms die.
3. The elements are put back into the soil because they are broken down (decayed)

Question 3

What conditions do microorganisms work best in?

Answer 3

Warm, moist conditions

Where there is plenty of oxygen

Question 4

What speeds up the rate of decay?

Answer 4

• Larger organisms (earthworms) as they help break down dead leaves for microorganisms
• Woodlice break down wood
• Maggots feed on animal tissue

Question 5

What are the larger organisms called?

Answer 5

Dertrivores

Question 6

What factors decrease the rate of decay?

Answer 6

Lack of water
Low temperature
Lack of oxygen