What is the science behind composting?
web.extension.illinois.edu/homecompost/science.html
(1)
www.compost.css.cornell.edu/chemistry.html
(2)
www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/rrr/composting/science.htm
(3)
Citations
Composting is like an equation, without one factor the entire equation falls apart
The system work properly when because Brown matter serve as "bulking agents" that allow oxygen to flow through the compost pile. Aerobic organisms then use this oxygen to consume both the brown and green matter. The microbal activity raises the temperature of the compost bin. The average compost bin has a central temperature of about 140 degrees. If this ecosystem functions sucessfully the result should be fertile soil.
Composting consist of a balance of nitrogen rich matter (green) and carbon rich matter (brown)
Composting requires microbes which serve as consumers in an energy pyramid. There are tertiary, secondary, and primary consumers.
Primary Consumers
(organisms that eat organic residues)
bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes,
nematodes, some types of mites, snails, slugs,
earthworms, millipedes, sowbugs, whiteworms
Secondary Consumers
(organisms that eat primary consumers)
springtails, some types of mites, feather-winged beetles
nematodes, protozoa, rotifera, soil flatworms
Tertiary Consumers
(organisms that eat secondary consumers)
centipedes, predatory mites,
rove beetles, fomicid ants,
carabid beetles
2/3 of carbon is given off as carbon dioxide
1/3 of carbon along with nitrogen are incorporated into microbial cells
The carbon to nitrogen ratio changes because as the composting process takes place and organic compounds are consumed by aerobic organisms.
If there is excess nitrogen at the start of the composting process, the nitorgen will be lost as ammonia gas, resulting in a pungent odor
By: Katherine Lopez & Niky Falques