Biodegradable
Biodegradable substances are materials that can be broken down by microorganisms into simpler substances.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi decompose biodegradable waste like vegetable peels, paper, and dry leaves. This makes such waste suitable for composting and natural recycling. The breakdown happens because living decomposers can act on the material over time.
Example
Vegetable peels thrown into a compost pit slowly change into compost with the help of microbes.
Simple analogy
Bio means living, so living decomposers can break it down.
Common confusion
Students often think anything that breaks into small pieces is biodegradable. Breaking physically is not the same as being decomposed by microbes.
Exam tip
Link biodegradable waste with composting, soil enrichment, and decomposers in your answer.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of biodegradable in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define biodegradable and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain biodegradable, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
Practice this concept with focused MCQs
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