Skip to content
    Biology GCSE

    abiotic factors

    What abiotic factors means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.

    Definitions of abiotic factors

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain abiotic factors in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: OCR

    Non-living variables such as temperature, light intensity, moisture and soil pH that directly influence physiological survival and affect plant growth and distribution.
    OCR · Ecosystems
    Non-living physical and chemical conditions of a habitat which can affect a community.
    AQA · Abiotic factors (study guide)

    Topics that use abiotic factors

    Related terms

    Using abiotic factors in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Biology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Biology GCSE terms