Decomposable: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'decomposable' when referring to substances that can be broken down chemically or biologically within a specific environment. More general than 'biodegradable' and can refer to chemical processes.

• The scientist studied the decomposable compounds in the laboratory.
• The packaging is decomposable and won't harm the environment.

More general term than 'biodegradable' and 'decomposable', used for materials that can be broken down, often used in relation to plastics.

• The new shopping bags are degradable and break down in sunlight.
• This fabric is degradable and won't last long in outdoor conditions.

Use 'biodegradable' when talking about materials that can be broken down by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Often used in environmental contexts.

• The company switched to biodegradable plastic to reduce pollution.
• These food wrappers are biodegradable and can be composted.

Use 'disintegrable' when referring to materials that can break apart into smaller pieces rather than decomposing chemically. Commonly used for solid objects.

• The tablet is disintegrable in water, making it easy to administer.
• These disks are disintegrable when exposed to high temperatures.

Used in mathematics and science to explain complex objects or structures that can be divided into simpler, manageable parts.

• This problem is decomposable into smaller, more manageable steps
• The complex formula was decomposable into several linear equations

Commonly used in mathematics to describe an expression that can be broken down into simpler terms, usually through the process of factoring.

• The polynomial is factorable into two binomials
• We need to find if this quadratic equation is factorable

Used to indicate that a problem or situation can be solved or dealt with successfully, often in a variety of contexts including disputes, issues, and equations.

• The conflict between the two parties was resolvable through negotiation
• This issue seems difficult, but it's definitely resolvable

Informally used to describe something that can be divided into two or more parts, typically physical objects or groups.

• The bill is splitable among all the friends at the table
• This piece of wood is easily splitable with an axe