Biodegrading: meaning, definitions and examples
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biodegrading
[ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪdɪŋ ]
Definition
environmental process
Biodegrading refers to the process by which organic substances are broken down by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, into simpler, non-toxic substances. This process is essential in nature as it helps in the decomposition of organic matter, thus recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Biodegrading is a key component of waste management, particularly for biodegradable materials like food waste, paper, and certain plastics. The efficiency of biodegrading can be influenced by various factors, including temperature, moisture, and the presence of oxygen.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Plastic bottles take years to biodegrade.
- Composting helps biodegrade organic waste efficiently.
- Certain packaging materials are designed to biodegrade quickly.
- Microorganisms are crucial for biodegrading pollutants.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term combines 'bio-', meaning life, and 'degrade', meaning to break down or reduce.
- Originating in the late 20th century, it gained prominence as environmental awareness grew.
Environmental Science
- Biodegrading is crucial for recycling nutrients in nature, helping maintain ecosystem balance.
- Organic waste like food scraps and plant matter biodegrades quickly, while plastics may take centuries.
- Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, play a key role in this process by breaking down complex substances.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often highlight extinction and environmental crises, showcasing the importance of biodegrading.
- Documentaries focused on climate change frequently discuss biodegrading as a solution to waste management.
Literature
- Many environmental novels explore themes of biodegrading, symbolizing the cycle of life and decay.
- Poets often use biodegrading imagery to evoke the natural world's beauty and fragility.
Psychology
- Understanding biodegrading can influence behaviors towards waste management and environmental stewardship.
- Research shows that awareness of biodegrading processes can enhance pro-environmental attitudes.
Translations
Translations of the word "biodegrading" in other languages:
🇵🇹 biodegradável
🇮🇳 जैव अपघटन
🇩🇪 biologisch abbaubar
🇮🇩 biodegradable
🇺🇦 біодеградування
🇵🇱 biodegradowalny
🇯🇵 生分解性の
🇫🇷 biodégradable
🇪🇸 biodegradable
🇹🇷 biyolojik olarak parçalanabilir
🇰🇷 생분해성의
🇸🇦 قابل للتحلل البيولوجي
🇨🇿 biologicky rozložitelný
🇸🇰 biologicky rozložiteľný
🇨🇳 生物降解的
🇸🇮 biološko razgradljiv
🇮🇸 lífrænt niðurbrot
🇰🇿 биологиялық ыдырайтын
🇬🇪 ბიოდეგრადირებადი
🇦🇿 bioloji parçalanan
🇲🇽 biodegradable