Which of the following is typically not an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

In the context of an ecosystem, biotic and abiotic factors are essential components that influence the environment and living organisms. Abiotic factors refer to the non-living physical and chemical aspects of the environment. These include elements such as temperature, humidity, pH, and light, which contribute to the conditions in which organisms thrive.

Plants, on the other hand, are living organisms and are classified as biotic factors. They play a vital role in ecosystems, serving as primary producers that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. By being living entities, plants interact with other biotic components, such as animals and microorganisms, as well as abiotic factors, influencing the broader ecosystem dynamics.

Humidity, pH, and light are all examples of abiotic factors. Humidity affects moisture availability for organisms, pH influences the chemical environment for organisms in soil and water, and light is crucial for photosynthesis and provides energy to the ecosystem. Hence, acknowledging plants as biotic factors distinguishes them from the abiotic factors listed, making it clear why this choice is not typically classified as an abiotic factor within an ecosystem.