Question

the word ecosystems appears in the final paragraph. what does the root eco- most likely mean? a air b balance c environment d energy

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of the root "eco - ", we analyze the word "ecosystems". An ecosystem refers to a community of living organisms and their physical environment interacting as a system. The root "eco - " is related to the environment as ecosystems are centered around environmental interactions. Option A (Air) is too narrow as ecosystems involve more than just air. Option B (Balance) is not the core meaning of "eco - " (though ecosystems do have balance, the root's primary meaning is about the environment). Option D (Energy) is also not the main meaning of "eco - " as ecosystems involve energy flow but the root is about the environment. So the root "eco - " most likely means "Environment".

Answer:

C. Environment