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Substances degraded easily by the biological processes are called as ________.
Hard material
Non-biodegradable
Soft material
Biodegradable
Hard material
Substances that are easily broken down into simpler compounds by the action of biological agents, such as bacteria and fungi, are termed biodegradable. These materials naturally return to the environment and do not accumulate to cause pollution.
Substances that are easily broken down into simpler compounds by the action of biological agents, such as bacteria and fungi, are termed biodegradable. These materials naturally return to the environment and do not accumulate to cause pollution.
Think of a banana peel left on the ground; within a few weeks, it decomposes into soil-enriching humus, unlike a plastic bottle which remains unchanged for hundreds of years.
Complex Organic Matter+O2MicrobesCO2+H2O+Minerals
Biodegradation is a metabolic process where microorganisms (decomposers) secrete enzymes that break down complex organic polymers (like cellulose, proteins, or starch) into simpler inorganic substances like CO2, H2O, and mineral salts. This process recycles nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Biodegradable materials are environment-friendly as they contribute to the nutrient cycle.
Non-biodegradable materials (like plastic, glass, and heavy metals) persist in the environment and cause pollution.
The decomposition rate depends on moisture, temperature, and microbial population.
Reduces landfill burden.
Provides natural fertilizers for soil.
Reduces environmental toxicity.
Composting of kitchen waste.
Use of paper-based packaging over plastic.
| Feature | Biodegradable | Non-biodegradable |
|---|---|---|
Decomposability | Fast (Natural breakdown) | Very slow or impossible |
The official answer provided in the prompt is factually incorrect. 'Hard material' is a physical property, not a biological classification. The correct category is 'Biodegradable'.
Option A is incorrect as hardness describes mechanical strength, not decomposition capability.
D is correct — Substances that can be decomposed by biological processes like bacterial action are known as biodegradable materials.
In exams, always distinguish between material physical properties (Hard/Soft) and their environmental behavior (Biodegradable/Non-biodegradable).