original_query: What is particulate organic matter (POM)?
query: What is particulate organic matter (POM)?
answer: Particulate organic matter (POM) is a fraction of total organic matter defined as that which does not pass through a filter with pore sizes typically ranging from 0.053 to 2 millimeters.  It's often used interchangeably with particulate organic carbon (POC), which refers specifically to the carbon mass within POM. POM includes various elements like carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen. It's readily decomposable, serving vital functions in soil and water ecosystems, including nutrient provision and influencing water turbidity.