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Questions and Answers
What is biodegradation?
What is biodegradation?
What is the difference between composting and biodegradation?
What is the difference between composting and biodegradation?
What is the term used when biodegradation is complete?
What is the term used when biodegradation is complete?
What is a compostable product required to do in a composting system?
What is a compostable product required to do in a composting system?
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What are the degradative abilities employed in biodegradation used for?
What are the degradative abilities employed in biodegradation used for?
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Study Notes
Biodegradation
- Biodegradation is the process of breaking down organic materials by microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast, into simpler compounds.
Composting vs Biodegradation
- Composting is a specific type of biodegradation that involves the aerobic decomposition of organic matter, typically in a controlled environment, to produce a stable humus-like product.
- Biodegradation is a broader term that encompasses various types of decomposition, including anaerobic decomposition, which occurs in the absence of oxygen.
Completion of Biodegradation
- The term used when biodegradation is complete is "mineralization", which refers to the conversion of organic matter into inorganic compounds, such as carbon dioxide, water, and minerals.
Compostable Products
- A compostable product is required to break down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass at a rate consistent with known compostable materials, and leave no toxic residues, in a composting system.
Applications of Biodegradation
- The degradative abilities employed in biodegradation are used for various purposes, including waste management, environmental remediation, and the production of biofuels and biochemicals.
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Description
Test your knowledge of biodegradation with this quiz! Explore the process by which living organisms break down organic substances into smaller compounds, contributing to the recycling of wastes and the enrichment of the environment.
