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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of an abiotic factor affecting a biotic factor?
A
A decrease in soil pH limiting plant growth
B
A parasite infecting a population of fish
C
Predation of rabbits by foxes
D
Competition between two bird species for nesting sites
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the definitions of abiotic and biotic factors. Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem, such as temperature, soil, water, and sunlight. Biotic factors are living components, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.
Step 2: Analyze the question to identify the interaction between abiotic and biotic factors. The problem asks for an example where a non-living factor (abiotic) affects a living factor (biotic).
Step 3: Evaluate each option provided:
- 'A decrease in soil pH limiting plant growth' involves an abiotic factor (soil pH) affecting a biotic factor (plants).
- 'A parasite infecting a population of fish' involves biotic factors (parasite and fish) interacting.
- 'Predation of rabbits by foxes' involves biotic factors (rabbits and foxes) interacting.
- 'Competition between two bird species for nesting sites' involves biotic factors (birds) interacting.
Step 4: Determine which option fits the criteria of an abiotic factor affecting a biotic factor. Based on the analysis, the correct example is 'A decrease in soil pH limiting plant growth,' as soil pH is abiotic and plant growth is biotic.
Step 5: Conclude that understanding the relationship between abiotic and biotic factors is essential for studying ecosystems, as abiotic factors often influence the survival, reproduction, and distribution of biotic factors.