Which of the following statements about aerobic and anaerobic decomposition is true?

Aerobic decomposition is indeed faster than anaerobic decomposition, and this statement reflects a fundamental principle of how these processes operate. In aerobic decomposition, microorganisms that require oxygen break down organic matter efficiently, using oxygen to metabolize carbon-based substances, which results in the rapid breakdown of material. The presence of oxygen enhances the activity of these decomposers, leading to quicker processing of waste and organic materials.

In contrast, anaerobic decomposition occurs in conditions where there is little to no oxygen, which slows down the metabolic processes of the microorganisms involved. As a result, the breakdown of organic materials takes much longer compared to aerobic processes. The slower rate of anaerobic decomposition is due to the limited efficiency of anaerobic microorganisms and the byproducts they create, which are often less stable and require more time to break down.

Understanding this difference is crucial in contexts such as waste management and composting, where the efficiency of decomposition can significantly impact the effectiveness of waste treatment strategies.