Question

Which of the following conditions inhibits decomposition?

Options

• High nitrogen content in detritus

• Low temperature and anaerobic conditions

• Warm temperature and high moisture

• High water-soluble substance content

Answer 1

Both low temperature and anaerobic conditions (absence of oxygen) inhibit decomposition. When combined, these conditions lead to incomplete breakdown of organic matter. In contrast, warm, moist, aerobic conditions strongly favour decomposition. Temperature affects enzyme activity while oxygen is essential for the primarily aerobic nature of the decomposition process.