# Explain how an increase in temperature and an increase in oxygen availability affect the rate of decomposition in a woodland ecosystem.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 4.1 The organism in the environment · Explain · 4 marks

> Decomposers break down dead plant and animal material on the forest floor. The rate at which this decomposition occurs is influenced by several abiotic factors.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Higher temperature increases the rate of decomposition
2. Because higher temperature increases the activity / metabolic rate of decomposers (enzymes work faster / microorganisms are more active)
3. Increased oxygen availability increases the rate of decomposition
4. Because decomposers respire aerobically using oxygen, releasing more energy to break down dead material / decomposers are more active when oxygen is available

## Key terms

- [decomposition](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/decomposition)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-an-increase-in-temperature-d98c968c) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.