Question

Which of the following factors does not affect the rate of decomposition of organic matter?

• A. Chemical composition of the detritus
• B. Photosynthetic ability of the producers
• C. Environmental temperature
• D. Anaerobiosis

Answer 1

The correct option is B Photosynthetic ability of the producers

One of the major functions of every ecosystem is decomposition.

The process of decomposition is the breakdown of complex organic materials present in dead remains of plants and animals (detritus) into simple inorganic compounds.

The rate at which decomposition occurs is dependent on multiple factors such as

• Chemical composition of the detritus - the presence of polymers such as lignin and chitin in the detritus slows down the decomposition process. Presence of nitrogen and water-soluble sugars in the detritus can speed up the rate of decomposition.
• Environmental temperature - a warm temperature favours the rate of decomposition whereas low temperatures slow down the rate of decomposition.
• Soil moisture - rate of decomposition is higher when the soil is moist.
• Anaerobiosis - Anaerobiosis or absence of oxygen is unfavourable for decomposition of organic matter and inhibits it. Availability of oxygen is necessary for decomposition to occur.

Photosynthetic ability of a plant majorly affects productivity of an ecosystem, i.e, the rate of production of organic matter by the process of photosynthesis.