Question

Briefly describe four abiotic factors found in an ecosystem.

Answer 1

1. All the non-living components of an ecosystem form the abiotic components or abiotic factors.

The abiotic factors in an ecosystem include all its non-living components such as water, air, soil, sunlight, and temperature.

Sunlight-

1. The Sun is the source of energy on Earth.
2. Plants trap the energy in sunlight and use it to carry out photosynthesis.
3. The behavior of animals and the life cycles of plants and animals are influenced by the availability of sunlight, during the day and across the seasons.

Water-

1. Water circulates through the water cycle.
2. The kinds of organisms that live in a region depend on the amount of water available in that region.
3. Water forms a major part of the bodies of organisms.
4. All internal bodily functions of organisms need water.
5. Water is required for photosynthesis.

Air-

1. The atmosphere keeps our planet warm by trapping the Sun’s heat.
2. Air and wind help to regulate the temperature of the Earth.
3. Most organisms need oxygen present in the air to get energy from food.
4. Plants use carbon dioxide in the air to make food.
5. The wind is an agent of pollination and seed dispersal. Birds, insects, and bats fly through the air.

Soil-

1. Soil is formed by the breakdown of rocks.
2. Soil is a source of water and minerals for plants.
3. It contains microorganisms that convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that can be utilized by plants.
4. Burrowing animals such as rabbits and earthworms live in the soil.