What is the Difference Between Decay and Putrefaction?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between decay and putrefaction lies in the source and process of decomposition. Both terms refer to the decomposition of organic matter, but they are used differently according to the source of the matter being decomposed and the method of decomposition.
Decay:
- Decay is the decomposition of matter due to the action of biological or chemical agents.
- It involves the complete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria.
- The natural process of decaying involves the breakdown of organic compounds into simpler inorganic compounds, such as simple sugars, water, and carbon dioxide.
- Decomposers, such as worms, aid in the decaying of organic matter.
Putrefaction:
- Putrefaction is the decomposition of the tissues and organs within a body.
- It is the incomplete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria.
- Putrefaction involves the decomposition of proteins and leads to the release of gases that can infiltrate the tissues.
- The first signs of putrefaction include a green discoloration on the outside of the skin.
In summary, decay is the decomposition of matter due to the action of biological or chemical agents, while putrefaction is the decomposition of tissues and organs within a body. The process of decay involves the complete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria, while putrefaction involves the incomplete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria.
Comparative Table: Decay vs Putrefaction
The main difference between decay and putrefaction lies in the process of decomposition and the substances involved in the process. Here is a table summarizing the differences between decay and putrefaction:
| Feature | Decay | Putrefaction |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The complete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria or fungi. | The incomplete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria. |
| Smell | Does not emit a foul smell. | Emits a foul smell. |
| Process | Involves the decomposition of dead organic matter via breaking down the substances, usually resulting in the end products of carbon dioxide and other simple inorganic compounds. | Occurs inside a body due to the action of bacteria and fungi, which cause the release of gases that can infiltrate the tissues. |
In summary, decay is the complete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria or fungi, without emitting a foul smell, while putrefaction is the incomplete breakdown of organic matter by bacteria, resulting in a foul smell.
- Fermentation vs Putrefaction
- Decomposition vs Combustion
- Decomposer vs Detritivore
- Scavenger vs Decomposer
- Corpse vs Cadaver
- Saprotrophs vs Saprophytes
- Fermentation vs Respiration
- Gangrene vs Necrosis
- Combustion vs Incineration
- Biodegradation vs Bioremediation
- Detritivores vs Saprotrophs
- Autopsy vs Necropsy
- Biotrophic vs Necrotrophic Fungi
- Food Poisoning vs Food Spoilage
- Combustion vs Burning
- Burial vs Funeral
- Respiration vs Combustion
- Corrosion vs Rusting
- Metabolism vs Catabolism