Decomposition & Recycling Matter

THE LINKED WILDS · LINKLING

Decomposition & Recycling Matter

Decomposer Hollow

Learn with Linkling, then use your clues in the adventure. Pause whenever you need time to read or think.

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Train more: lesson transcript and free resources

Linkling — Decomposition & Recycling Matter Decomposer Hollow

Hi!

I'm Linkling.

Welcome to Decomposer Hollow!

Will you help me investigate decomposition & recycling matter?

The Grumblies have mixed up our clues.

Let's check the evidence!

Decomposers break down dead organisms and wastes.

Their activity returns materials to soil, water and air.

Which organisms drive decomposition?

  • A. Many fungi and bacteria
  • B. Only large predators
  • C. Only stones

The answer is A: Many fungi and bacteria

Decomposers break down dead organisms and wastes.

Their activity returns materials to soil, water and air.

That clue helps us make sense of this place.

Plants can use some of these materials again.

Matter moves through cycles, while energy transfers and spreads

rather than cycling in the same way.

What can plants reuse?

  • A. An unlimited store of unchanged energy
  • B. The exact same energy returned from heat
  • C. Materials returned to the environment

The answer is C: Materials returned to the environment

Plants can use some of these materials again.

Matter moves through cycles, while energy transfers and spreads

rather than cycling in the same way.

Hmm...

how does that connect to our first clue?

Our model follows fallen leaves through decomposition to materials used by plants.

It requires decomposers, not a magic step that makes dead matter vanish.

Does matter simply vanish during decomposition?

  • A. Only at night
  • B. No
  • C. Yes

The answer is B: No

Our model follows fallen leaves through decomposition to materials used by plants.

It requires decomposers, not a magic step that makes dead matter vanish.

Nice investigating!

You've been following the evidence.

Let's bring our clues together before the adventure.

Decomposers break down dead organisms and wastes.

Plants can use some of these materials again.

Our model follows fallen leaves through decomposition to materials used by plants.

You're ready to explore Decomposer Hollow with me!

Choose TRAIN MORE if you'd like another look at the clues.

Choose START ADVENTURE when you're ready.

I'll be right here!

Or choose BACK TO MAP.

Every stop is open to explore!

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