Final answer:
The rate of decomposition is directly influenced by the presence of oxygen, temperature, and moisture. Organic material deposited in an oxygen-poor environment inhibits decomposition. Temperature affects enzyme activity, and moisture plays a role in the distribution of organisms involved in decomposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rate of decomposition is directly influenced by several environmental conditions. One important factor is the presence of oxygen. Organic material that is deposited in an oxygen-poor environment, such as dead animal and plant remains settling to the bottom of a still, shallow sea, inhibits decomposition.
Another important environmental condition is temperature. Temperature affects the physiology of living organisms and the state of water. Enzymes, which play a crucial role in decomposition, are most efficient within a specific range of temperatures.
Moisture is also a key variable dictating the distribution of organisms on terrestrial habitats. The presence of moisture can contribute to the decomposition of organic matter.