What do we call the release of heat from decaying organic materials?

The term for the release of heat from decaying organic materials is known as the heat of decomposition. This process occurs when organic matter, such as plant or animal material, breaks down over time due to microbial activity. During decomposition, energy stored in the biomass is released as heat. This can be significant, particularly in composting and natural decay, where it contributes to the warming of the material being decomposed.

The other terms refer to different processes. The heat of integration does not pertain to biological processes; it generally relates to the energy changes accompanying chemical analysis techniques. The heat of reaction specifically refers to the energy change that occurs during a chemical reaction, highlighting the interplay between reactants and products, but it does not specifically apply to organic decay alone. Lastly, the heat of combustion is the energy released when a substance combusts in the presence of oxygen, which is distinct from the gradual breakdown of organic matter without the presence of combustion conditions.