Give two examples of abiotic factors in an ecosystem.

Prepare for the Leaving Certification Ecology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure your success!

Abiotic factors are the non-living components of an ecosystem that significantly influence the living organisms within that environment. Sunlight and temperature are prime examples of abiotic factors.

Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, which allows plants to produce energy and, in turn, supports the entire food web. Without adequate sunlight, productivity declines, affecting all levels of consumers in the ecosystem. Temperature, on the other hand, affects metabolic rates of organisms, influencing their behavior, reproduction, and survival. Different species thrive in specific temperature ranges, and any significant deviations can lead to shifts in community dynamics.

The other options focus on biotic factors, which include living organisms such as plants, animals, and producers. While these factors are important in ecosystems, they do not fit the definition of abiotic factors, which are essential for understanding the various environmental conditions that shape ecosystems.

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