A substance is considered biodegradable if it can be broken down by biological processes, typically involving bacteria, fungi, or other saprophytes. These substances are naturally decomposed into simpler, harmless compounds over time.
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A substance is considered biodegradable if it can be broken down into simpler compounds by the action of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or enzymes, in the presence of oxygen or other suitable conditions. These microorganisms secrete enzymes that catalyze the decomposition process, converting complex organic molecules into smaller, environmentally benign components like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. Biodegradability depends on the chemical structure of the substance; organic compounds with bonds susceptible to microbial attack tend to be more biodegradable. However, not all biodegradable substances break down easily in all environments, and factors like temperature, moisture, and microbial activity play crucial roles.