Ecology
Abiotic
Non-living physical and chemical factors in an environment. Abiotic factors include temperature, light, water, nutrients, and soil composition.
Biological Context
Abiotic factors set the physical constraints within which life operates. Temperature determines metabolic rates; water availability limits where organisms can survive; nutrient availability affects growth. Changes in abiotic factors can dramatically restructure ecosystems.
Business Application
In business, abiotic factors include regulations, interest rates, infrastructure, and technology platforms. These non-competitive forces shape what strategies are possible.