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.

Biology Today and Tomorrow without Physiology (MindTap Course List)

5th Edition

ISBN:9781305117396

Author:Cecie Starr, Christine Evers, Lisa Starr

Publisher:Cecie Starr, Christine Evers, Lisa Starr

Chapter4: Energy And Metabolism

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 3DID

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