Decomposition is the process by which dead organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter such as carbon dioxide, water, simple sugars and mineral salts.

What does decomposing mean?

1 : to separate into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds decompose water by electrolysis decompose a word into its base and affixes. 2 : rot. intransitive verb. : to break up into constituent parts by or as if by a chemical process : decay, rot fruit decomposes.

What is an example of decompose?

When a dead body breaks down and eventually some of its parts disintegrate into the earth, this is an example of a time when the body decomposes. When you cause something to rot or break down, this is an example of a time when you decompose the item.