Question

Which of the following correctly lists the five steps of decomposition in order?

Options

• Fragmentation → Leaching → Catabolism → Humification → Mineralisation

• Fragmentation → Catabolism → Leaching → Mineralisation → Humification

• Leaching → Fragmentation → Catabolism → Mineralisation → Humification

• Catabolism → Fragmentation → Leaching → Humification → Mineralisation

Answer 1

The correct sequence of decomposition steps is: (1) Fragmentation—physical breakdown by detritivores, (2) Leaching—movement of water-soluble nutrients downward, (3) Catabolism—enzymatic degradation by microbes, (4) Humification—formation of humus, and (5) Mineralisation—conversion of humus to inorganic nutrients. This order reflects how detritus is progressively broken down and converted.