Question

Which statement is correct about biodegradable materials? (a) These are toxic in nature (b) These can be broken down by bacteria (c) These are used for converting waste to greenery (d) These spoil the biological environment

Short answer

Biodegradable materials can be broken down by bacteria.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Biodegradable Materials

Biodegradable materials are substances that can be decomposed by natural processes, typically involving the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. These materials eventually break down into simpler substances that are absorbed into the environment.

Evaluating Option A

The statement that biodegradable materials are toxic in nature is incorrect. Biodegradable materials typically break down into non-toxic components, making them environmentally friendly.

Evaluating Option B

This option states that biodegradable materials can be broken down by bacteria. This is correct as bacteria are among the primary microorganisms that decompose these materials.

Evaluating Option C

The statement that biodegradable materials are used for converting waste to greenery is misleading. While biodegradable materials decompose into useful components that enrich soil, they themselves do not directly convert waste to greenery.

Evaluating Option D

The statement that biodegradable materials spoil the biological environment is incorrect. In fact, they tend to be environmentally beneficial as they decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues.

Key concepts

Environmental Science

Environmental science is a field that focuses on understanding the interactions between the natural environment and human activities. It's all about studying the effects of human actions on the environment and finding ways to reduce negative impacts. Biodegradable materials play a significant role in this field.

• These materials are often seen as a solution to environmental pollution because they break down naturally.
• The decomposition of organic waste through biodegradable materials helps prevent landfill overflow and contributes to eco-friendly waste management.
• Biodegradability is essential for reducing the carbon footprint and sustaining ecosystems.

By adopting biodegradable materials, we can promote a more harmonious relationship between technological advancement and nature, leading to a healthier planet.

Microorganisms

Microorganisms are tiny living organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that play a crucial role in the decomposition process. These organisms are essential for breaking down biodegradable materials into simpler compounds that can be reintegrated into the environment.

• Bacteria are the primary decomposers, especially for organic materials like food scraps, paper, and other natural fibers.
• Fungi, including molds and yeast, complement bacteria by decomposing tougher materials like wood and leaf litter.
• These microorganisms work in concert to efficiently recycle nutrients and maintain the balance of ecosystems.

Without these microorganisms, the world would be filled with waste, and natural cycles of nutrient recycling would be disrupted, leading to poor soil fertility and increased pollution.

Decomposition

Decomposition is a natural process where complex organic substances are broken down into simpler forms. This process is vital for recycling nutrients and maintaining the Earth's ecological balance.

Stages of Decomposition

• Initial Decay: Microorganisms start to break down the organic material.
• Active Decay: Rapid breakdown as population of bacteria and fungi peak.
• Advanced Decay: A significant amount of the organic matter is decomposed, leaving behind components that enrich the soil.
• Skeletal or Dry Stage: Final breakdown stages where only resistant materials remain.

This cyclical process not only cleans up the environment but also nourishes it, promoting plant growth and supporting life on Earth. By understanding and supporting effective decomposition, we can turn waste into valuable resources.