a new shopping center is built where a forest used to be. how did humans change the biotic and abiotic…

Brief Explanations:

Biotic factors are living things (e.g., plants, animals). Abiotic factors are non - living things (e.g., soil, water, air). When a forest is replaced by a shopping center:

• Biotic factors:
  • Plants: Most of the original trees and other plants in the forest are removed. New plants (if any) might be ornamental species chosen for landscaping, which are different from the native forest plants.
  • Animals: Animals that lived in the forest (such as birds, squirrels, insects) lose their habitat. Some may be displaced or die.
• Abiotic factors:
  • Soil: The soil may be compacted during construction. The original soil structure that supported forest plants is altered. There could also be changes in soil moisture retention as the impervious surfaces (like parking lots and building foundations) reduce water infiltration.
  • Water: Runoff patterns change. In a forest, water is absorbed by the soil and plants. In a shopping - center area, more water runs off into storm drains, potentially causing more erosion in some areas and less groundwater recharge.
  • Air: There may be an increase in air pollution from vehicles (cars, trucks) coming to the shopping center. The number of trees (which absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen) is reduced, so the local air quality in terms of oxygen - carbon dioxide balance is affected.

Answer:

Biotic factors: Removal of native plants and displacement or death of animals. Abiotic factors: Soil compaction, changes in water runoff and air quality.