Several factors affect how quickly and effectively a chemical breaks down, including:
Environmental Conditions: Temperature, humidity, and the presence of light can accelerate or decelerate chemical breakdown. pH Levels: Some substances are more stable at certain pH levels and break down when exposed to different pH conditions. Biological Activity: Enzymes in biological systems can catalyze the breakdown of chemicals, often resulting in biotransformation. Chemical Structure: The inherent stability of a chemical's molecular structure can influence its breakdown rate.