1. Replication: The ability to copy itself accurately to ensure that genetic information is passed on to daughter cells during cell division. This ensures that every cell in an organism has a complete set of genetic instructions.

2. Expression: The ability to direct the synthesis of proteins and other functional molecules that carry out the organism's life processes. This means the genetic code needs to be translated into functional products, such as enzymes, hormones, and structural components, that drive the organism's metabolism, development, and behavior.