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Multiple Choice
Which of the following are the three main factors that determine the characteristics of a terrestrial biome?
A
Climate, soil type, and predominant vegetation
B
Rainfall, ocean currents, and mineral content
C
Temperature, wind speed, and human population
D
Latitude, animal diversity, and altitude
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding what a terrestrial biome is. A terrestrial biome is a large ecological area on land characterized by specific climate conditions, soil types, and biological communities, particularly vegetation.
Step 2: Recognize that the characteristics of a terrestrial biome are primarily influenced by environmental factors that shape the living conditions for organisms. These factors include climate, soil type, and the predominant vegetation, as these directly affect the ecosystem's structure and function.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. For example, rainfall and ocean currents are more relevant to aquatic ecosystems, while temperature and wind speed are components of climate but do not fully define a biome. Latitude and altitude influence climate but are not direct determinants of biome characteristics.
Step 4: Understand why climate is a key factor. Climate encompasses temperature and precipitation patterns, which are crucial for determining the types of organisms that can survive in a biome. Soil type affects nutrient availability and water retention, which influence vegetation growth. Predominant vegetation defines the biome's identity and supports the food web.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Climate, soil type, and predominant vegetation,' as these three factors collectively determine the characteristics of a terrestrial biome.