Which material is mostly organic and often found in wetland areas?

Prepare for the NEHA Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

Peat is a material primarily composed of decomposed organic matter, which is why it is predominantly found in wetland areas. In these environments, the conditions are often waterlogged and anaerobic, which slows down the decomposition of plant material, allowing it to accumulate over time. This accumulation results in a thick, spongy soil that is rich in carbon. Peat serves as an important ecological resource, providing habitat for various species and playing a significant role in carbon cycling and storage.

In contrast, materials like sand, clay, and gravel are inorganic and generally do not contain significant amounts of organic matter. Sand consists of granular particles that result from the weathering of rocks and minerals, while clay is made up of very fine particles that can hold water but lacks the organic composition found in peat. Gravel, made of larger rock fragments, similarly does not possess organic material to the extent that peat does. Thus, peat is the most representative of organic material in wetland ecosystems.

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