9. An abiotic factor in an ecosystem. trees bushes grass soil

## Step 1<br />An abiotic factor refers to non-living physical and chemical elements in an ecosystem. These elements are crucial for the functioning of the ecosystem and the survival of the organisms within it. They include sunlight, temperature, wind patterns, rocks, soil, water, atmosphere, and climate.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />In the given options, trees, bushes, and grass are all biotic factors. This is because they are all living or once-living entities in the environment. They are part of the biotic components of an ecosystem, which also includes all the living organisms.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Soil, on the other hand, is an abiotic factor. It is a mixture of minerals, organic matter, gases, liquids, and countless organisms that together support life on Earth. It is not a living entity, but it is a crucial component of the ecosystem, providing nutrients and a medium for plant growth.