Soil and Decomposition Quiz

What is the process called that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces?

• Weathering

• Deposition

• Sedimentation

• Erosion

Which of the following is NOT a component of soil?

• Water

• Air

• Minerals

• Plastic

What is organic matter?

• Material that is living or was once living

• Material that was never alive

• Material that is only found in water

• Material made of plastic

What is the term for the completely decayed organic matter in soil?

• Litter

• Compost

• Humus

• Mulch

Which of the following is a process that releases nutrients back into the environment?

• Decomposition

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis

• Evaporation

What are decomposers commonly referred to as?

• Nature's builders

• Nature's recyclers

• Nature's creators

• Nature's destroyers

Which group of organisms is primarily responsible for decomposition?

• Predators

• Consumers

• Producers

• Decomposers

What is the role of fungi in the decomposition process?

• They produce their own food

• They consume other organisms

• They break down dead organic matter

• They photosynthesize

Where is the most common place to find organic matter in a home?

• Bedroom

• Bathroom

• Garage

• Kitchen

What should you look for when observing decomposition outdoors?

• New plant growth

• Animal tracks

• Signs of decay and fungi

• Freshly fallen leaves