Decomposition is defined as ...

Decomposition is defined as ...

• A. Decompose
• B. Decomposition
• C. Cast-off
• D. Chain of Custody

Answer: (B)

The concept being tested is naming the process itself. Decomposition is defined as the process by which organic matter, especially a body after death, breaks down through natural decay processes driven by microorganisms and other factors. It names the ongoing sequence of decay, not the action of breaking something down (that would be “decompose”), nor an unrelated term like “cast-off” or “chain of custody.” So the noun form that literally names the process—decomposition—is the correct choice.

The concept being tested is naming the process itself. Decomposition is defined as the process by which organic matter, especially a body after death, breaks down through natural decay processes driven by microorganisms and other factors. It names the ongoing sequence of decay, not the action of breaking something down (that would be “decompose”), nor an unrelated term like “cast-off” or “chain of custody.” So the noun form that literally names the process—decomposition—is the correct choice.