what are the characteristics that define living things
The characteristics that define living things can be remembered using the acronym "MRS GREN." Here's an explanation of each characteristic:
1. Movement: Living things are capable of self-movement, either by the entire organism or by parts of it. They can move towards a source of food or away from danger.
2. Respiration: This characteristic refers to the ability of living things to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Respiration allows organisms to release energy from food and participate in metabolic processes.
3. Sensitivity: Living things can respond to external stimuli in their environment. They have the ability to perceive and react to changes such as light, sound, touch, temperature, or chemicals.
4. Growth: Living things can grow and develop over time. They increase in size, acquire new cells, and go through life stages such as infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
5. Reproduction: Living things have the ability to produce offspring either sexually or asexually. Reproduction ensures the continuation of the species.
6. Excretion: Living things produce waste products that need to be eliminated from their systems. This process, known as excretion, helps maintain proper internal balance and prevents toxic buildup.
7. Nutrition: Living things require energy and nutrients to survive. They obtain these through the process of nutrition, by consuming and breaking down food into usable molecules.
Remembering the characteristics using the acronym MRS GREN can help you recall the key features that define living things.