Decomposition and its Implications in Composting, Food Preservation, and Biogas Production

The video explains the role of decomposers in breaking down waste and dead material, recycling nutrients back into ecosystems. It discusses how temperature, water, and oxygen affect the rate of decay, and provides a method to calculate decay rate. The video also highlights practical applications of decay knowledge in composting, food preservation, and biogas production, concluding with a recap of key concepts.

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

• They consume living plants and animals.

• They create new ecosystems.

• They break down complex substances into simpler ones.

• They produce energy for plants.

Which environmental factor does NOT affect the rate of decay?

• Temperature

• Water content

• Oxygen availability

• Sunlight exposure

How is the rate of decay calculated?

• By dividing the change in mass by the number of days

• By adding the starting and final mass

• By multiplying the starting mass by the number of days

• By subtracting the number of days from the final mass

What is one method to increase oxygen availability in a compost heap?

• Reducing the temperature

• Sealing the compost heap tightly

• Adding more water

• Turning the compost heap

Why is it beneficial to place a lid on a compost heap?

• To allow sunlight to reach the compost

• To insulate and maintain warmth and moisture

• To prevent oxygen from entering

• To keep it dry

Which method is NOT used for food preservation?

• Reducing temperature

• Increasing water content

• Irradiation

• Canning

What is produced during anaerobic decay in biogas generators?

• Nitrogen gas

• Carbon dioxide

• Oxygen

• Methane gas