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Decay occurs in a compost heap - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 11 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 11
Decay occurs in a compost heap. Figure 19 shows a compost heap. Describe: • how microorganisms in the layers of soil help to recycle chemicals in the dead plants •... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Decay occurs in a compost heap - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 11 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
how microorganisms in the layers of soil help to recycle chemicals in the dead plants
Answer
Microorganisms play a vital role in the decomposition process of dead plant material. They break down complex organic matter into simpler molecules through a series of processes.
Key Processes:
- Digestion: Microorganisms digest large molecules, such as proteins and carbohydrates, into smaller molecules like amino acids and sugars.
- Respiration: During respiration, these microorganisms utilize the organic matter to release energy, producing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
- Mineral Release: As they break down the plant matter, they release essential minerals back into the soil, such as nitrates and phosphates, making these nutrients available for other organisms.
Step 2
how the chemicals are used again by living plants
Answer
Living plants reabsorb these released minerals and chemicals for their growth and development.
Nutrient Utilization:
- Nitrogen Cycle: Plants take up nitrates through their roots, which are crucial for synthesizing amino acids and proteins.
- Photosynthesis: Plants also utilize carbon dioxide absorbed from the air via their leaves, facilitating the process of photosynthesis to produce glucose.
- Energy Storage: The glucose created is then used by plants for energy or converted into starch and cellulose, which are vital for their structure and energy storage.