Which process involves the breakdown of organic material without the presence of oxygen?

The process that involves the breakdown of organic material without the presence of oxygen is known as anaerobic respiration. This biological process occurs in environments where oxygen is limited or absent and allows microorganisms, such as certain bacteria, to generate energy. During anaerobic respiration, these organisms metabolize organic compounds to produce energy, typically resulting in byproducts such as lactic acid or ethanol, depending on the specific type of anaerobic pathway being utilized.

In contrast, other options represent different processes. Facultative fermentation refers to the ability of some organisms to switch between aerobic and anaerobic pathways depending on oxygen availability. Autolysis is the self-digestion of tissues, often occurring after death and primarily involving the breakdown of cells by their own enzymes, rather than a microbial process. Aerobic decomposition, on the other hand, requires the presence of oxygen and involves the breakdown of organic matter by aerobic organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, which utilize oxygen to decompose materials efficiently.

Understanding anaerobic respiration is important in mortuary science, especially when considering the conditions under which decomposition occurs in various environments. In anaerobic settings, such as sealed caskets or in the absence of oxygen, the types of bacteria involved in decomposition can significantly differ from those in aerobic settings, influencing