Break down of complex organic matter into inorganic substances is known as:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Decomposition
Decomposition is a process of several steps. The steps are fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification and mineralisation.
(1) Leaching — Incorrect. This is one step of decomposition. Water-soluble inorganic nutrients move down into the soil and get locked up in it as unavailable salts.
(2) Catabolism — Incorrect. This is also one step. Enzymes of bacteria and fungi break the fragmented detritus into simpler substances.
(3) Fragmentation — Incorrect. This is the first step. Detritivores such as earthworms break the detritus into smaller pieces.
(4) Decomposition — Correct. Decomposers break down complex organic matter into inorganic substances like carbon dioxide, water and nutrients. This whole process is called decomposition.
NCERT Extract:
Decomposition –
