Rates of decomposition

• Conditions for decay:

  • Temperature
  • Moisture
  • Oxygen
• High temperatures increases rate of decomposition to provide energy for enzymes to decompose ( if too hot they will denature )
• Compost = Dead plant material that has been decomposed by microorganisms and is used as fertiliser
• Biogas = Methane gas from the decomposers anaerobically respiring
• Uses of Biogas:

  • Fuel for vehicles
  • Electricity Generation
  • Cooking and heating
• Anaerobic decay produces methane that is used as biogas