ORGANIC MATTER Meaning and
Definition
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Organic matter refers to any material that contains carbon and is derived from living organisms or the remains of once-living organisms. It is a broad term used to describe the decaying and decomposing matter found in nature, such as plants, animals, microorganisms, and other biological materials.
Organic matter is an essential component of healthy soil. When plants and animals die, their bodies break down, releasing nutrients and organic compounds into the soil. These organic materials serve as a source of food for microorganisms, fungi, and various soil-dwelling organisms. As these organisms consume and break down the organic matter, they release valuable nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, that are necessary for plant growth and development.
The presence of organic matter in soil is crucial for its fertility and overall health. It helps to improve the soil's structure by enhancing its ability to retain water, preventing erosion, and promoting root growth. Organic matter also acts as a natural fertilizer, providing essential nutrients to plants and supporting the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms.
In addition to its importance in soil, organic matter plays a vital role in various ecosystems. It contributes to the formation of humus, the dark, crumbly material found in forest floors, which enriches the soil and supports the growth of new plants. Furthermore, organic matter facilitates carbon sequestration by storing carbon in the soil, helping to mitigate climate change by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Common Misspellings for ORGANIC MATTER
- irganic matter
- krganic matter
- lrganic matter
- prganic matter
- 0rganic matter
- 9rganic matter
- oeganic matter
- odganic matter
- ofganic matter
- otganic matter
- o5ganic matter
- o4ganic matter
- orfanic matter
- orvanic matter
- orbanic matter
- orhanic matter
- oryanic matter
- ortanic matter
- orgznic matter
- orgsnic matter
Etymology of ORGANIC MATTER
The word "organic" originates from the Greek word "organikos", which means "of an organ" or "relating to organs". It was first used in the 14th century to refer to substances derived from living organisms. The term "organic matter" refers to the part of the matter that originates from living organisms, such as plants or animals. The word "matter" comes from Latin "materia", meaning "wood, timber, substance". Combining these origins, "organic matter" essentially means substances derived from living organisms.
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