What makes something a living thing
http://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/Science-Stories/Earthworms/Characteristics-of-living-things
To determine if something is a living thing, scientists typically consider several characteristics that are unique to living organisms. These characteristics include:
1. Cellular organization: Living things are made up of one or more cells, which are the basic structural and functional units of life.
2. Homeostasis: Living organisms have the ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment. This allows them to function properly and survive.
3. Metabolism: Living things require energy to grow, develop, and carry out various processes. They obtain and use energy through chemical reactions, collectively known as metabolism.
4. Growth and development: Living organisms show growth by increasing in size or cell number. They also undergo changes in their structure and ability to function as they mature (development).
5. Reproduction: Living things have the ability to reproduce, either sexually or asexually, to produce offspring and pass on their genetic information.
6. Response to stimuli: Living organisms can respond to stimuli from their environment, such as light, temperature, or touch. They have specialized structures or systems that allow them to detect and respond to these stimuli.
7. Evolution: Living organisms show genetic variation and the ability to adapt to their environment over time through the process of evolution.
By considering these characteristics, scientists can determine if something meets the criteria for being classified as a living thing.