What defines an ecosystem?

An ecosystem is defined as a system that includes all living things, also known as biotic components, and the physical environment, or abiotic components, interacting as a unit. While the answer stating all living things in a specific environment captures an essential part of the ecosystem concept, it primarily focuses on the biotic elements without considering the abiotic factors and their interactions.

In an ecosystem, not only the living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, are present, but they also depend on non-living elements like soil, water, air, and climate. The interactions among these living and non-living components create a complex web that sustains life. This balance among different organisms and their environment facilitates energy flow and nutrient cycling, integral processes for sustaining ecosystems.

The options that focus solely on living things or physical environments do not encapsulate the holistic view of ecosystems, which encompasses both biological and environmental factors, including their interactions. Understanding this interdependence is critical in ecology and environmental science, as it highlights how changes in one component can affect the others and the overall health of the ecosystem.