When materials are disposed of, they go through physical and chemical changes depending on how they are treated:Organic waste (like food) decays and decomposes into biodegradable matter.Plastics may be recycled (shredded or melted) or left in landfills, where they become brittle.Metals can be melted and reused.Paper breaks down if wet or becomes brittle when stored for too long.Disposal often leads to changes in form, structure, and usability.