Decomposition

Decomposition, or rotting, is what happens to living things when they die. It also happens to organic material of any kind, such as foodstuffs. The reason it happens is that organic molecules are stores of building blocks and energy. Whatever breaks down organic material uses the energy and building blocks to reproduce itself.

One whole kingdom of living things does nothing except break down organic material: the fungi. Their life style is called 'saprophytic', because they break down and intake organic matter through their cell walls.

A large part of decomposition is done by microbes, especially bacteria. Also common is digestion of flesh by maggots. If insects lay eggs, maggots hatch and begin to feed on the body's tissues.

Lastly, decomposition can take place by inorganic processes. All organic materials break down over time because they are in higher energy states than ordinary inorganic materials. 
+ Degradation products of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids Proteins  Carbohydrates  Lipids Proteoses, peptones, polypeptides, and amino acids Glucose Free fatty acids (saturated and unsaturated) Phenolic substances and gases  Organic acids and alcohols Salts of fatty acids Organic acids and decarboxylation products Water, carbon dioxide   Aldehydes and ketones Nitrogen and phosphorus Gases Adipocere  

Category:Biology