_____________ Occurs When Elements are Converted from Organic Form Back

Question

_____________ occurs when elements are converted from organic form back to an inorganic form.
A) Immobilization
B) Mineralization
C) Decomposition
D) Salinization

Accepted Answer

Mineralization is the process by which organic elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus are converted back into inorganic forms. This conversion occurs through the action of decomposer organisms such as bacteria and fungi, which break down the organic matter and release the elements into the soil or water in their inorganic form. Immobilization, on the other hand, is the opposite process in which inorganic nutrients are taken up by plants and microorganisms and stored in organic matter, making them unavailable for use by other organisms. Salinization is the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can have negative impacts on plant growth and soil structure. Decomposition is a broad term that refers to the breakdown of organic matter into simpler compounds, but it does not specifically refer to the conversion of organic elements into inorganic forms.