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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes sunlight in the context of the characteristics of life?
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': Biotic factors refer to living components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. Abiotic factors refer to non-living components, such as sunlight, temperature, water, and soil.
Analyze the nature of sunlight: Sunlight is a form of energy emitted by the sun and does not possess characteristics of living organisms, such as growth, reproduction, or cellular structure.
Determine whether sunlight fits the definition of biotic: Since sunlight is not a living organism and does not exhibit life processes, it cannot be classified as biotic.
Evaluate whether sunlight fits the definition of abiotic: Sunlight is a non-living environmental factor that influences ecosystems, such as providing energy for photosynthesis in plants. This aligns with the definition of abiotic.
Conclude that sunlight is an abiotic factor based on its non-living nature and its role in supporting life processes within ecosystems.