degradation pathways

Degradation pathways describe the processes through which complex molecules or materials break down into simpler components over time. These pathways involve chemical, physical, or biological mechanisms—such as oxidation, hydrolysis, or microbial activity—that alter the structure of substances. Understanding these pathways helps predict how materials change or deteriorate, informing efforts to improve durability or manage waste. Essentially, degradation pathways trace the step-by-step transformation from original substance to its degraded forms, providing insight into the longevity and environmental impact of materials or compounds.