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Multiple Choice
Which term best describes permafrost in the context of the characteristics of life?
A
Autotrophic
B
Abiotic
C
Biotic
D
Heterotrophic
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: Permafrost refers to a layer of soil that remains frozen year-round, typically found in polar regions. It is not a living organism but a physical environmental feature.
Review the definitions of the terms provided: 'Autotrophic' refers to organisms that produce their own food (e.g., plants via photosynthesis), 'Heterotrophic' refers to organisms that consume other organisms for energy, 'Biotic' refers to living components of an ecosystem, and 'Abiotic' refers to non-living components of an ecosystem.
Determine whether permafrost is living or non-living: Since permafrost is a frozen layer of soil and does not exhibit characteristics of life (e.g., growth, reproduction, metabolism), it is classified as non-living.
Match the correct term to the non-living characteristic: The term 'Abiotic' is used to describe non-living components of an ecosystem, such as soil, water, and temperature.
Conclude that the term 'Abiotic' best describes permafrost in the context of the characteristics of life, as it is a non-living environmental feature.