Figure 8 shows a compost bin - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 5
Figure 8 shows a compost bin.
(i) Give one reason why the compost bin has gaps at the sides.
(ii) A student placed 2.0 kg of vegetable waste in a compost bin.
Aft... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 8 shows a compost bin - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Give one reason why the compost bin has gaps at the sides.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The gaps in the compost bin allow air (or oxygen) to enter and also enable excess water to drain out.
Step 2
Calculate the rate of decomposition of the vegetable waste.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
To find the rate of decomposition, first calculate the change in mass:
Change in mass = Initial mass - Final mass = 2.0 kg - 1.7 kg = 0.3 kg.
Next, use the formula for rate of decomposition:
extRateofdecomposition=Time takenChange in mass=20 days0.3 kg=0.015 kg per day.