Biogas production is a three-step process involving the anaerobic breakdown of biomass by methanogenic bacteria. Let's understand each step in detail:

1. Hydrolysis:
- During the first step, known as hydrolysis, complex organic matter present in the biomass is broken down into simpler compounds.
- Enzymes secreted by hydrolytic bacteria convert complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into simpler molecules such as sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids.
- This step occurs in the presence of water and is essential to make the biomass more accessible to the microorganisms responsible for the subsequent steps.

2. Acidogenesis:
- In the second step, acidogenesis, the simpler compounds produced during hydrolysis are further broken down into volatile fatty acids (VFAs) such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid.
- Acidogenic bacteria transform the sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids into VFAs through fermentation.
- This step also results in the release of carbon dioxide and hydrogen as byproducts.

3. Methanogenesis:
- The final step, methanogenesis, involves the conversion of VFAs and other intermediate compounds into biogas, primarily composed of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
- Methanogenic bacteria, specifically Archaea, carry out this process in an oxygen-free environment.
- Two groups of methanogens work together in a syntrophic relationship: acetotrophic methanogens convert acetic acid into methane, while hydrogenotrophic methanogens use hydrogen and carbon dioxide to produce methane.
- The methane produced is the main component of biogas, which can be harvested and used as an energy source.

In summary, the production of biogas through the anaerobic breakdown of biomass by methanogenic bacteria involves three main steps: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, and methanogenesis. These steps work in a sequential manner, with each step preparing the biomass for the subsequent step until biogas is produced.