NEETBotanyEcosystem
What is leaching ?
Options
- AThe accumulation of a dark coloured amorphous substance
- BThe release of inorganic nutrients
- CThe process by which water:soluble inorganic nutrients go down into the soil horizon
- DThe process of breaking down detritus into inorganic substances
Correct answer
C. The process by which water:soluble inorganic nutrients go down into the soil horizon
Step-by-step solution
You may have heard of the earthworm being referred to as the farmer’s ‘friend’. This is so because they help in the breakdown of complex organic matter as well as in loosening of the soil. Similarly, decomposers break down complex organic matter into inorganic substances like carbon dioxide, water and nutrients and the process is called decomposition. Dead plant remains such as leaves, bark, flowers and dead remains of animals, including fecal matter, constitute detritus, which is the raw material for decomposition