Question

Choose the correct statements with respect to decomposition from the following:
(A) Decomposition is an anaerobic process.
(B) Decomposition rate of detritus depends upon the chemical nature of it.
(C) Water-soluble organic nutrients go into the soil and get precipitated in the process of leaching.
(D) Humification follows mineralisation.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• (B) and (D) only
• (A) and (C) only
• (B) and (C) only
• (A) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve the question, let's analyze each statement in relation to decomposition:

(A) Decomposition is an anaerobic process.
This statement is incorrect. Decomposition generally involves both aerobic and anaerobic processes. Aerobic decomposition is more common, occurring in the presence of oxygen.

(B) Decomposition rate of detritus depends upon the chemical nature of it.
This statement is correct. The rate at which decomposition occurs is influenced by the chemical composition of the detritus, such as the carbon to nitrogen ratio and the presence of complex substances like lignin.

(C) Water-soluble organic nutrients go into the soil and get precipitated in the process of leaching.
This statement is incorrect. During leaching, water-soluble nutrients are usually washed away, not precipitated.

(D) Humification follows mineralisation.
This statement is correct. Humification is the process of formation of humus, and it occurs after mineralization, where organic matter is broken down into simpler inorganic substances.

Based on the analysis, the correct statements are (B) and (D). Therefore, the correct answer is: (B) and (D) only

Answer 2

Statement (A): Decomposition is an anaerobic process.

False. Decomposition can occur under both aerobic (with oxygen) and anaerobic (without oxygen) conditions. However, aerobic decomposition is generally faster and more efficient than anaerobic decomposition.

Statement (B): Decomposition rate of detritus depends upon the chemical nature of it.

True. The rate of decomposition of detritus (dead organic matter) depends on its chemical composition. For example, detritus rich in lignin and cellulose decomposes more slowly than detritus rich in simple sugars and proteins.

Statement (C): Water-soluble organic nutrients go into the soil and get precipitated in the process of leaching.

False. Water-soluble organic nutrients do go into the soil, but they are typically carried away by water in the process of leaching, rather than precipitating.

Statement (D): Humification follows mineralisation.

True. Mineralisation is the process where organic matter is broken down into inorganic nutrients. Humification follows mineralisation and involves the formation of humus, a dark-colored, highly stable organic substance that improves soil structure and fertility.

Conclusion

Based on the explanations above, the correct statements are (B) and (D). Therefore, the correct answer is (1) (B) and (D) only.