When aerobic synthesis occurs in a landfill, what stage of decomposition is the refuse expected to be in?

Aerobic synthesis in a landfill occurs during the early stages of decomposition. During this phase, organic materials are actively broken down by microorganisms in the presence of oxygen. This process involves the decomposition of fresh waste, where bacteria and other microorganisms thrive, leading to the generation of carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.

In the early stages, the organic matter is still rich and nutrient-dense, making it conducive for aerobic microorganisms to utilize it effectively. This stage is characterized by significant microbial activity and the breakdown of organic materials, which contrasts with later stages of decomposition where anaerobic processes become more prominent due to a lack of available oxygen.

As decomposition progresses, the refuse becomes biologically stable and eventually chemically inert, indicating that the organic materials have been mostly broken down and are no longer reactive or decomposing at a significant rate. Therefore, the presence of aerobic synthesis specifically pinpoints this activity to the early decomposition phase, where oxygen is still readily available and decomposition is vigorous.