Which one among the following phenomena includes processes, such as production, predation, nutrient transformation, and the influx and efflux of energy and materials ?

The phenomena described—including production, predation, nutrient transformation, and the influx and efflux of energy and materials—collectively define 'Ecosystem function'. According to the provided texts, the function of an ecosystem is a dynamic system encompassing energy flow, nutrient cycling (biogeochemical cycles), and biological processes like food chains and webs [c1, t1]. Specifically, productivity (production) and decomposition are core functional requirements [t5]. Predation is a biological interaction within food webs that facilitates energy transfer [c2, c3]. The influx and efflux of energy refer to the balance of energy input (solar) and output (respiration/dissipation) [c5]. While biogeochemical cycles (Option 4) are a critical component of ecosystem function, they specifically refer to the movement of nutrients [t2, t4]. Therefore, 'Ecosystem function' is the most comprehensive term that integrates all these physical, biological, and chemical processes [t1, t5].

Sources

1. [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 2: Functions of an Ecosystem > FUNCTIONS OF AN ECOSYSTEM > p. 11
2. [2] https://www.deshbandhucollege.ac.in/pdf/resources/1587401626_BA(H)-Psc-Eco-Eng-BA(P)-II-Ecosystem.pdf
3. [3] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 2: Functions of an Ecosystem > 2.3. FOOD WEB > p. 12
4. [4] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 1: BASIC CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY > EnErgy cyclE. > p. 27
5. [5] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 1: BASIC CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY > 1.14 Environment and Ecology > p. 14