What does the term abiotic factors mean?

Abiotic factors refer to the non-living components of an ecosystem that influence the environment and contribute to the living conditions for various organisms. This includes elements like sunlight, temperature, water, soil, and air. For example, in a desert ecosystem, high temperatures and scarce water are critical abiotic factors shaping the life forms that can thrive there. Understanding abiotic factors is essential for studying ecology, as they play a vital role in shaping habitats and the biological communities within them. For instance, plants in a rainforest are adapted to high humidity and ample sunlight, while those in a tundra have evolved to withstand cold temperatures and limited nutrients. These adaptations demonstrate how life is intricately linked to the abiotic world!