Decomposition & Decay (Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Biology): Flashcards
Exam code: YBI11
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Define decomposers.
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Define decomposers.
Decomposers are microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi that break down dead plants and animals.
What is the role of decomposers in recycling nutrients?
Decomposers break down dead plants and animals and release nutrients that can be reused by living organisms.
Decomposers secrete enzymes that break organic molecules, such as cellulose, into smaller ones.
Decomposers secrete enzymes that break large organic molecules, such as cellulose, into smaller ones.
During decomposition, microorganisms release products that provide nutrients to plants.
During decomposition, microorganisms release waste products that provide nutrients to plants.
True or False?
Decomposition by microorganisms releases only carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
False.
Decomposition by microorganisms releases both carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere.
How is carbon dioxide absorbed and reused in the carbon cycle?
Carbon dioxide is absorbed by green plants and the carbon is fixed back into carbohydrates during photosynthesis.
After decomposers break large molecules into smaller ones such as glucose, what happens to these small molecules?
The small molecules, such as glucose, can be broken down further during respiration.
Define decomposition.
Decomposition is the breakdown of dead plants and animals by microorganisms, recycling the chemical components needed by living organisms back into the ecosystem.
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