Which process involves the breakdown of substances into simpler components?

The process that involves the breakdown of substances into simpler components is known as degradation. This term is often used in various fields, including chemistry and environmental science, to refer specifically to the process where complex molecules are broken down into their simpler forms, which can include both physical and chemical decomposition.

In the context of environmental science and aquatic pest management, degradation is crucial as it often refers to the way pollutants or unwanted substances are broken down in aquatic ecosystems. These simpler components may then integrate back into the natural environment, either through biological processes or physical reactions.

While decomposition also refers to the breakdown of substances, it is more commonly associated with the breakdown of organic materials, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler organic matter often facilitated by microorganisms. The key distinction is that degradation can encompass a wider range of processes including both organic and inorganic substances, as well as various chemical reactions.

Other terms like modification and destruction do not accurately capture the process of breaking down substances into simpler forms. Modification implies a change in form or structure without necessarily breaking down into simpler elements, while destruction suggests a complete annihilation rather than a transformation into simpler components.