How Long Will Litter Last?

Decomposition is the word scientists use to describe how materials break down in nature. Can you determine how long it takes for these littered items to decompose?

Match the litter on the left with the time it can last in nature. Use the boxes on the left to write your choices. Then use the drop-down menu to check your answers.

 
Paper
Plastic-coated Paper
Plastic Bags
Plastic bottles
Plastic Six-pack Holder
Orange or Banana Peel
Aluminum Cans
Styrofoam
Tin Cans
Nylon Fabric
Cotton Shirt
Glass Bottles
Wool Socks
a. 2-4 weeks
b. 1-6 months
c. 2 years
d. 1-5 years
e. 5 years
f. 10-20 years
g. 30-40 years
h. 50 years
i. 80-100 years
j 100 years
k. 1,000,000 years
l. indefinitely
m. indefinitely

 

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Last updated: April 6, 2015

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