noun the process of gradual deterioration or decomposition
verb to undergo the process of decay; to decompose or deteriorate
Decay plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and the breakdown of organic matter in ecosystems.
Decay may be considered in the deterioration of materials over time, leading to structural weaknesses or failure.
In chemistry, decay can refer to the breakdown of a radioactive substance into other elements or isotopes.
In physics, decay can refer to the spontaneous transformation of a particle into one or more different particles.
Decay refers to the natural process of decomposition of organic matter, often carried out by bacteria and fungi.
Decay can be used in a writer's context to describe the process of deterioration or decline in a character's mental state or physical condition over time.
Psychologists may use the term decay to refer to the loss of memory or cognitive abilities over time, such as in cases of neurodegenerative diseases.
Biologists may use decay to describe the breakdown of organic matter or the process of decomposition in ecosystems.
Historians may use decay to describe the gradual decline or deterioration of a civilization or empire over time.
Chemists may use decay to refer to the breakdown of unstable isotopes into more stable forms through radioactive decay.