bio-, bi-, -bia, -bial, -bian, -bion, -biont, -bius, -biosis, -bium, -biotic, -biotical +

The sum of all the nonliving components of an environment or habitat.

1. The (supposed) origin or evolution of living organisms from lifeless matter without the action of living parents; “spontaneous generation” (introduced by Professor Thomas H. Huxley when addressing the British Association at Liverpool, September, 1870).
2. The now discredited theory that living organisms can be spontaneously generated directly from nonliving matter. An antonym of biogenesis.
3. Spontaneous generation; the concept that life can simply arise spontaneously from non-living matter by natural processes without the intervention of supernatural powers.

Of or pertaining to abiogenesis; not resulting from the activities of living organisms.

In an abiogenetic manner; by way of abiogenesis.

Not derived from living organisms; occurring independently of life or life processes, but perhaps preceding or leading to them. Antonymous to biogenic.

The theory that hydrocarbon deposits have a primarily non-biological origin.

According to this concept, such materials became trapped far below the earth's crust when the basic structure of the planet evolved, and have subsequently migrated into reservoirs and to the surface through openings in in the earth's crust.

Contrasted with the more generally accepted biogenic theory that hydrocarbon deposits derive from the remains of living organisms.

One who holds or advocates the hypothesis of abiogenesis.

Coming into existence without springing from antecedent living beings; produced by “spontaneous generation”.

Not pertaining to biology; pertaining to the study of inanimate things. Also: abiotic, inanimate.

1. The study of inanimate or non-living things.
2. Not biologic; not pertaining to living organisms.

The study of inorganic processes, or inorganic activity, in living organisms.

The non-living component of the total particulate matter suspended in water.

1. Devoid of life; non-living.
2. Absence or deficiency of life; abiotrophy.

1. Characterized by the absence of life; inanimate; such as, water, sand, gravel, stones, etc.
2. That which is harmful to or destructive of living organisms.
3. Incompatible with life, as an environment that will not support life.
4. Relating to, or caused by, nonliving environmental factors; such as, light, temperature, water, soil, pH, salinity, and atmospheric gases.

Degeneration; loss of physical vitality or ability.

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