What process helps to maintain soil fertility and structure through organic matter contributions?

Decomposition is the process that significantly contributes to maintaining soil fertility and structure through the breakdown of organic matter. During decomposition, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi break down dead plant and animal material, transforming it into simpler organic and inorganic compounds. This results in the formation of humus, which enriches the soil.

Humus is crucial for soil health; it enhances its ability to retain moisture and nutrients, improves soil structure by increasing aggregation, and facilitates better aeration and drainage. Moreover, the nutrients released during the decomposition process become available for uptake by plants, thus supporting crop growth and productivity.

In contrast, compaction leads to increased soil density, which can impede root growth and water infiltration. Mineralization refers to the conversion of organic matter into inorganic forms of nutrients, but it does not directly enhance soil structure like the overall process of decomposition. Desertification, on the other hand, is a degradation process leading to loss of arable land and does not contribute positively to soil fertility. Therefore, the process of decomposition plays a vital role in sustaining healthy and productive soils.