The process of mineralisation by microorganisms helps in the release of:

The correct option is inorganic nutrients from detritus and formation of humus.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Decomposition is a complex biological process through which complex organic matter is broken down into simpler inorganic substances. This process involves several sequential steps, including fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification, and mineralisation.

During the decomposition of detritus (dead plant and animal remains), humification leads to the accumulation of a dark-coloured, amorphous substance called humus. Humus is highly resistant to microbial action and undergoes decomposition at an extremely slow rate. It serves as a reservoir of nutrients.

Mineralisation is the final stage in this process. In this step, the humus and detritus are further degraded by specific microorganisms, leading to the release of inorganic nutrients (such as carbon dioxide, water, and mineral nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) back into the soil, making them available for plant uptake. Therefore, the process of mineralisation by microorganisms facilitates both the release of inorganic nutrients from detritus and the associated formation and breakdown of humus.