Which of the Following Statements About Landfills is True

Question

Which of the following statements about landfills is true?
A) Decomposition of garbage is slowed by anaerobic conditions.
B) Decomposition of garbage is slowed by aerobic conditions.
C) Decomposition of garbage is slowed by toxic chemicals, which kill microorganisms.
D) Decompostion of garbage is slowed by the release of methane.

Accepted Answer

Landfills are typically designed to create anaerobic conditions, meaning there is very little oxygen present. This slows the natural process of decomposition, as aerobic bacteria require oxygen to break down organic matter. Anaerobic bacteria do eventually break down organic matter in a landfill, but at a much slower rate than aerobic bacteria.