Factors affecting the rate of decomposition
I can explain why some factors affect the rate of decomposition by microorganisms.
Factors affecting the rate of decomposition
I can explain why some factors affect the rate of decomposition by microorganisms.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Microorganisms use enzymes to decompose biological material.
- The rate of decomposition is affected by temperature, which affects the rate of enzyme-controlled reactions.
- The rate of decomposition is affected by the availability of water, which microorganisms need to survive.
- The rate of decomposition is affected by the availability of oxygen to aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.
Keywords
Microorganism - A microorganism is an organism that can only be seen using a microscope.
Decomposer - A decomposer is an organism that feeds on the remains of other living organisms (organic matter).
Enzyme - A protein which acts as a biological catalyst. This speeds up a reaction without being used up.
Rate - The rate is how quickly something takes place. The rate of a reaction is a measure of how much change occurs per unit of time.
Aerobic - Aerobic means in the presence of oxygen.
Common misconception
Research has found that pupils generally do not appreciate the important roles of microorganisms in decomposition and the recycling of elements. Many associate microorganisms only with disease.
The lesson outlines the factors that are important in recycling of elements but also that microorganisms are the natural cleaners of the environment.
To help you plan your year 10 biology lesson on: Factors affecting the rate of decomposition, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 biology lesson on: Factors affecting the rate of decomposition, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 biology lessons from the Living organisms and their environments unit, dive into the full secondary biology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
