Which statement best defines an ecosystem?

The definition of an ecosystem encompasses both the living organisms within a community and their interactions with the physical environment. This definition emphasizes the interdependency of various species, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as their interactions with elements like soil, water, air, and climate. To fully understand an ecosystem, it's essential to recognize that it is not just about the organisms themselves but also how they interact and engage with their surroundings. This includes processes like nutrient cycling, energy flow, and ecological relationships such as predation, competition, and symbiosis. Thus, the most accurate definition captures this holistic perspective of biological communities in conjunction with their abiotic, or non-living, surroundings.