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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes sunlight in terms of biotic and abiotic factors?
A
Sunlight is both biotic and abiotic.
B
Sunlight is an abiotic factor.
C
Sunlight is a biotic factor.
D
Sunlight is neither biotic nor abiotic.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definitions of biotic and abiotic factors: Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. Abiotic factors are non-living components, such as sunlight, temperature, water, and soil.
Analyze the nature of sunlight: Sunlight is a form of energy that originates from the sun and is not a living organism. Therefore, it cannot be classified as a biotic factor.
Determine if sunlight fits the definition of an abiotic factor: Since sunlight is a non-living component that influences ecosystems (e.g., photosynthesis in plants, temperature regulation), it is classified as an abiotic factor.
Eliminate incorrect options: 'Sunlight is a biotic factor' and 'Sunlight is neither biotic nor abiotic' are incorrect because sunlight is not living and it does play a role in ecosystems.
Conclude that the correct description is: 'Sunlight is an abiotic factor,' as it aligns with the definition of non-living components that affect ecosystems.