Which of the following would be considered a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

• A. Temperature
• B. A population of oak trees
• C. Soil minerals
• D. Sunlight

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of biotic factors. Biotic factors refer to the living components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. These factors interact with each other and with abiotic factors (non-living components) to shape the ecosystem.
2. Step 2: Review the options provided in the question. Identify which options represent living components (biotic factors) and which represent non-living components (abiotic factors).
3. Step 3: Analyze the option 'Temperature.' Temperature is a physical condition and is considered an abiotic factor because it is non-living.
4. Step 4: Analyze the option 'A population of oak trees.' Oak trees are living organisms, and a population of them represents a biotic factor in the ecosystem.
5. Step 5: Analyze the options 'Soil minerals' and 'Sunlight.' Both are non-living components of the ecosystem and are therefore classified as abiotic factors.