Abiotic factors are the non-living components of an ecosystem that influence the environment and the organisms living within it. These factors include elements such as temperature, water, light, soil, and air. They play a crucial role in determining the types of organisms that can thrive in a particular habitat. For example, temperature affects the metabolic rates of organisms, while water availability can limit plant growth. Soil composition influences the types of vegetation that can grow, and light is essential for photosynthesis in plants. Understanding abiotic factors helps scientists study ecosystems and their dynamics.