The functional unit of the biosphere is

Options

A. Ecosystem
B. Community
C. Landscape
D. Biome

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Biosphere:**
- The biosphere is defined as the global ecosystem that includes all living organisms (biotic factors) and their interactions with the physical environment (abiotic factors).

2. **Identifying the Options:**
- The options provided are:
- A) Ecosystem
- B) Community
- C) Landscape
- D) Bio

3. **Defining Each Option:**
- **Ecosystem:** This is a structural and functional unit of the biosphere where living organisms interact with each other and with their physical environment.
- **Community:** This refers to a group of different species living together in a particular area.
- **Landscape:** This encompasses a broader area that includes multiple ecosystems and communities.
- **Bio:** This term is more general and does not specifically refer to a unit within the biosphere.

4. **Analyzing the Correct Answer:**
- Among the options, the ecosystem is the one that encompasses both biotic and abiotic components and represents the functional unit of the biosphere. It is where energy flow and nutrient cycling occur, maintaining ecological balance.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question "The functional unit of the biosphere is" is **option A: ecosystem**.

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