What is the focus of ecology as a field of study?

Ecology is fundamentally concerned with understanding the relationships and interactions between organisms and their environment. This encompasses not just the organisms themselves but also the physical, chemical, and biological components of their surroundings. The study of these interrelationships can include how organisms interact with each other, how they adapt to their environment, the flow of energy through ecosystems, and the cycling of nutrients. This holistic view is essential for understanding ecological balance, biodiversity, and the impacts of human activities on various ecosystems.

In contrast, the other areas mentioned, such as interactions within cells, involve cellular biology rather than ecological systems. Chemical processes in organisms pertain to biochemistry, focusing on the inner workings of biological entities rather than their relationships with external factors. Similarly, while growth patterns in species can be relevant in ecology, they do not encompass the broader interactions and relationships that define the field. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the intricate connections that make up the ecological landscape.