Undecomposed

In the context of biology and chemistry, 'undecomposed' describes a substance or organism that has not undergone the process of decay, breakdown, or disintegration. This means it remains in its original or relatively unchanged form. It signifies the absence of the natural chemical reactions caused by bacteria, fungi, or other agents that lead to the degradation of organic matter. Essentially, it represents a state of preservation, where the constituent elements of the substance haven't been broken down into simpler components or changed by environmental factors like heat, pressure, or exposure to air.

Undecomposed meaning with examples

• The archaeologist carefully unearthed a container with undecomposed seeds, offering a rare glimpse into the ancient agricultural practices of the civilization. Their viability, surprisingly, was tested to see if they could still germinate. This discovery provided invaluable insight. Further analysis was conducted to determine their exact age and composition, providing answers to questions of the past.
• After the volcanic eruption, scientists discovered some organisms. They found an area with unique geological conditions. They found some samples of organic matter, undecomposed, in the anaerobic environment, shielded from bacteria and oxygen. This rare preservation provided an opportunity to study life’s resilience. The research team analyzed the undecomposed biological materials.
• To preserve the archaeological artifacts for long-term study and exhibition, they needed to make sure that no environmental factors affected the quality of the materials. The museum meticulously stored them, carefully in an environment that was maintained at a constant temperature and humidity, and without air. They protected the ancient manuscripts and tapestries to prevent them from being decomposed, maintaining their original features.
• Forensic scientists were able to determine the time of death based on the condition of the victim's remains. Finding areas with relatively undecomposed tissue. This indicated that the body was recently exposed to the elements or that the specific environmental conditions delayed the process of decay. The findings helped investigators narrow the time window.