Question

1. wastes and dead organisms must be broken down in order for their components to be used again. what organisms in the cycle carry out this process?
2. what would happen if decomposition did not occur?

Explanation:

Decomposers such as bacteria and fungi break down wastes and dead organisms. Without decomposition, nutrients would not be recycled, waste would accumulate, and the ecosystem would be disrupted.

Answer:

1. Decomposers (bacteria and fungi) carry out the process of breaking - down wastes and dead organisms.
2. Nutrients would not be recycled, waste would accumulate, and the ecosystem would be severely disrupted.