Decomposition begins at the moment of death, caused by two factors: autolysis, the breaking down of tissues by the body's own internal chemicals and enzymes, and putrefaction, the breakdown of tissues by bacteria. … See more

Decomposition of plant matter occurs in many stages. It begins with leaching by water; the most easily lost and soluble carbon compounds are liberated in this process. Another … See more

The rate of decomposition is governed by three sets of factors: the physical environment (temperature, moisture and soil properties), the … See more

• Media related to Decomposition at Wikimedia Commons
• 1Lecture.com – Food decomposition (a Flash animation) See more

Exposure to the elements
A dead body that has been exposed to the open elements, such as water and air, will decompose more quickly and attract much more insect activity than a body that is buried or confined in special protective gear or artifacts. … See more

The decomposition of food, either plant or animal, called spoilage in this context, is an important field of study within food science. … See more

• Cadaverine
• Chemical decomposition
• Ecosystem
• Humus
• Leachate
• Microbiology of decomposition See more