Question

actinobacteria sp. are fermenting organisms, which do not require oxygen to survive. these organisms break down organic material and convert it to inorganic material. which part of the carbon cycle does this describe?

• photosynthesis
• respiration
• decomposition
• assimilation

Explanation:

1. Analyze each option:

• Photosynthesis: Plants use sunlight to convert CO₂ and water to organic matter, opposite of breaking down organic to inorganic. Eliminate.
• Respiration: Organisms break down organic matter for energy, but the key here is breaking down organic to inorganic (like CO₂) by decomposers. Respiration is more about energy release for the organism itself. Eliminate.
• Decomposition: Decomposers (like the described Actinobacteria) break down dead organic material into inorganic substances (like CO₂, nutrients), which matches the description.
• Assimilation: Organisms take in and use inorganic nutrients to build organic matter, opposite of breaking down. Eliminate.

Answer:

C. decomposition