Which of the following is an example of a change that can occur in ecosystems?

• A. The boiling point of water increasing at sea level
• B. The atomic structure of elements remaining constant
• C. A decrease in biodiversity due to habitat destruction
• D. The speed of light changing in a vacuum

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of ecosystems. Ecosystems are dynamic systems composed of living organisms (biotic factors) and their physical environment (abiotic factors) interacting together. Changes in ecosystems can occur due to natural or human-induced factors.
2. Step 2: Evaluate each option provided in the question. For example, the boiling point of water increasing at sea level is a physical property of water and not related to ecosystem changes. Similarly, the atomic structure of elements remaining constant is a fundamental principle of chemistry and does not pertain to ecosystems.
3. Step 3: Focus on the option mentioning 'a decrease in biodiversity due to habitat destruction.' Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in an ecosystem, and habitat destruction (e.g., deforestation, urbanization) is a well-documented cause of biodiversity loss, which is a significant change in ecosystems.
4. Step 4: Consider the option about the speed of light changing in a vacuum. This is a physical constant in physics and does not relate to biological or ecological changes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct example of a change in ecosystems is 'a decrease in biodiversity due to habitat destruction,' as it directly impacts the living organisms and their interactions within the ecosystem.