1. Organization: Living things are highly organized, with specialized structures (cells, tissues, organs) working together.

2. Metabolism: They carry out chemical reactions to obtain and use energy (e.g., respiration, photosynthesis).

3. Growth and Development: Living things increase in size and complexity over time.

4. Response to Stimuli: They react to changes in their environment, such as light, temperature, or touch.

5. Reproduction: They produce offspring, ensuring the continuation of their species.

6. Adaptation: Living things evolve over time to better suit their environment.

7. Homeostasis: They maintain a stable internal environment, despite external changes.

8. Genetic Material: They contain DNA or RNA as their genetic blueprint, passed on to offspring.