Which one of the following is not an edaphic factor?

Options

A. Mineral matter
B. Organic matter
C. Rainfall
D. Soil water.

Answer

To determine which of the following is not an edaphic factor, we need to understand what edaphic factors are. Edaphic factors refer to the soil-related factors that affect living organisms, particularly plants. These include various physical and chemical properties of the soil.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Define Edaphic Factors**: Edaphic factors are the soil-related conditions that affect the ecosystem. They include soil texture, mineral content, organic matter, pH, and moisture levels.

2. **List the Given Options**: The options provided are:
- Mineral matter
- Organic matter
- Rainfall
- Soil
- Water

3. **Identify Edaphic Factors from the Options**:
- **Mineral Matter**: This is an edaphic factor as it refers to the inorganic components of soil that provide nutrients to plants.
- **Organic Matter**: This is also an edaphic factor as it includes decomposed plant and animal material, which enriches the soil.
- **Soil**: This is the medium in which plants grow and is therefore an edaphic factor.
- **Water**: Water present in the soil is crucial for plant growth and is considered an edaphic factor.

4. **Analyze Rainfall**: Rainfall is not a soil-related factor; it is a climatic factor that affects the amount of water available in the soil but does not pertain to the soil's physical or chemical properties.

5. **Conclusion**: Since rainfall does not directly relate to the soil's characteristics, it is not considered an edaphic factor.

### Final Answer:
The correct option is **rainfall**, as it is not an edaphic factor.

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