WAEC - Biology (2024 - No. 31)
Which of the following gases is released during the decomposition of organic matter?
Carbon(II) oxide
Sulphur (IV) oxide
Hydrogen Sulphide
Nitrous oxide
Forklaring
The primary gas released during the decomposition of organic matter is carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\))
When organic matter decomposes, the primary gases released are carbon dioxide(CO\(_2\)) and methane (CH\(_4\)), with carbon dioxide being produced in both aerobic (with oxygen) and anaerobic (without oxygen) conditions, while methane is primarily produced in anaerobic environments like landfills.
Other gases that may be released during decomposition include:
- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S): This gas has a strong, rotten egg smell and is produced in anaerobic conditions.
- Nitrogen gas (N2): Released as a byproduct of the breakdown of organic nitrogen compounds.