Which of the following best describes a salad in terms of biological classification?

• A. Neither biotic nor abiotic, because it is man-made
• B. Abiotic, because it is not alive
• C. Biotic, because it is composed of parts of living organisms
• D. Abiotic, because it does not show movement

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the terms 'biotic' and 'abiotic': Biotic refers to anything that is or was part of a living organism, while abiotic refers to non-living components of the environment, such as water, air, and minerals.
2. Analyze the composition of a salad: A salad typically consists of vegetables, fruits, and other plant-based components, which are derived from living organisms.
3. Consider the biological classification: Even though the salad is man-made, its components (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers) were once part of living organisms, making it biotic.
4. Evaluate the incorrect options: 'Abiotic, because it is not alive' is incorrect because the salad is composed of parts of living organisms. 'Neither biotic nor abiotic, because it is man-made' is incorrect because man-made objects can still be classified as biotic or abiotic based on their origin. 'Abiotic, because it does not show movement' is incorrect because movement is not a criterion for biotic classification.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is 'Biotic, because it is composed of parts of living organisms,' as the salad's components were derived from living plants.