The rate of decomposition of detritus is affected by abiotic factors like the availability of oxygen, $pH$ of the soil substratum, temperature, etc. Discuss.

(N/A) Decomposition is the process of breakdown of complex organic matter into inorganic substances like $CO_2$, water, and nutrients by decomposers.
$1$. $Oxygen$ $availability$: Decomposition is an oxygen-requiring process. The rate of decomposition is higher in aerobic conditions (presence of oxygen) and slower in anaerobic conditions (absence of oxygen).
$2$. $pH$ $of$ $the$ $soil$ $substratum$: The $pH$ of the soil influences the activity of decomposers like bacteria and fungi. Most decomposers prefer a neutral to slightly acidic $pH$. Extreme $pH$ levels can inhibit microbial activity.
$3$. $Temperature$: Temperature is a critical factor. Warm and moist environments favor decomposition because they promote the activity of soil microbes. Low temperatures inhibit microbial activity, leading to the accumulation of detritus, while very high temperatures may also limit the growth of certain decomposers.