When plants and animals die, their bodies are decomposed by organisms such as bacteria or fungi. Which statement is true regarding the decomposition process?

Question

A.
Decomposition is a chemical change because the organism is broken down into new substances.
B.
Decomposition is a physical change because the organism is broken down into new substances.
C.
Decomposition is a physical change because the identity of the dead plant or animal does not change.
D.
Decomposition is a chemical change because the identity of the dead plant or animal does not change.

Answer 1

The correct statement regarding the decomposition process is:

A. Decomposition is a chemical change because the organism is broken down into new substances.

Decomposition involves biochemical processes that break down the complex organic materials in dead organisms into simpler substances, resulting in new chemical compounds. This change results in a transformation of the original materials, which is characteristic of a chemical change.