1. Organization: Living organisms are highly organized, meaning they have a complex structure consisting of one or more cells. This organization allows them to carry out specific functions.
2. Metabolism: Living organisms carry out chemical reactions necessary for life. They take in energy and matter, convert it into usable forms, and release waste products.
3. Growth: Living organisms increase in size and complexity over time. This can involve an increase in the number of cells or the size of existing cells.
4. Reproduction: Living organisms produce offspring, either sexually or asexually, to ensure the continuation of their species.
5. Responsiveness: Living organisms react to stimuli in their environment. This can include movement, changes in behavior, or internal adjustments.
6. Homeostasis: Living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. This includes regulating temperature, pH, and other factors.
7. Adaptation: Living organisms evolve over time to become better suited to their environment. This adaptation occurs through natural selection.
8. Genetic Material: All living organisms contain DNA as their genetic material, which is passed on to offspring.
These characteristics are essential for life and differentiate living organisms from non-living matter.
