Dead organic matter commonly decomposes in a pattern that follows a negative exponential curve. Scientists wanted to compare the decomposition rates of leaves from cherry trees and maple trees. The scientists placed bags of leaves from each type of tree into a stream and retrieved the bags over time. The scientists repeated the experiment three times. The scientists calculated and graphed the mean amount of litter remaining of each leaf type at all time points. When plants decompose, the dead plant matter first leaches substances such as salts, sugars, and amino acids. After this leaching, one compound left behind is lignin. Lignin gives leaves their toughness and resists decomposition.
Dead organic matter commonly decomposes in a pattern that follows a negative exponential curve. Scientists wanted to compare the decomposition rates of leaves from cherry trees and maple trees. The scientists placed bags of leaves from each type of tree into a stream and retrieved the bags over time. The scientists repeated the experiment three times. The scientists calculated and graphed the mean amount of litter remaining of each leaf type at all time points. When plants decompose, the dead plant matter first leaches substances such as salts, sugars, and amino acids. After this leaching, one compound left behind is lignin. Lignin gives leaves their toughness and resists decomposition.
Chapter18: Vitamins, Minerals, And Herbals
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 12RQ
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