What term describes nonliving factors such as wind, water, and soil type in an ecosystem?

The term that describes nonliving factors in an ecosystem, such as wind, water, and soil type, is "abiotic." Abiotic factors are critical components of an ecosystem because they influence the conditions in which living organisms, or biotic factors, exist and thrive. These nonliving elements affect various processes within the ecosystem, including nutrient cycling, energy flow, and habitat formation.

Understanding abiotic factors is essential for managing aquatic environments, as they can greatly impact water quality, habitat suitability, and ultimately the biodiversity present in those ecosystems. For example, the temperature and salinity of water can determine what types of fish and plants can live in a given area, while soil type can affect plant growth along shorelines.

The other terms provided do not accurately encapsulate nonliving components. Biotic factors refer to the living components of an ecosystem, such as plants and animals; aquatic pertains specifically to water-related environments; and organic typically relates to materials derived from living organisms.