What defines an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

An abiotic factor in an ecosystem is defined as the physical and non-living components that influence the environment and the interactions within it. This includes elements such as temperature, water, sunlight, soil, and atmospheric gases. These factors play a crucial role in shaping the habitat and ultimately determine the types of organisms that can thrive in a particular environment.

Understanding abiotic factors is essential because they set the conditions under which biotic factors, or living organisms, operate. For instance, the amount of sunlight and water available will directly affect plant growth, which in turn influences the entire food web of an ecosystem. Without recognizing the importance of these non-living elements, one cannot fully appreciate the dynamics of ecological interactions and the health of the ecosystem as a whole.

In contrast, the other choices refer to aspects of biological interactions or diversity, which do not describe the non-living elements that characterize abiotic factors. Hence, the definition that focuses on the physical and non-living components is crucial to understanding ecosystem dynamics.