i would like to know if i had to determind if something was alive (meaning some type of life form) what are the 6 characteristics i would look for.

http://mimi.essortment.com/characteristics_rbrc.htm

Well to detemine that is to see if it's breathing or if it eats.It helps if you try to figure out it's habbitat to make futher testing easier.Then see if it's dangerous or not then that should be the basics.

-Charlene H.-

To determine if something is alive, scientists typically look for certain characteristics that are common to all living organisms. Here are the six characteristics of life:

1. Organization: Living organisms are highly organized structures, consisting of one or more cells. Cells are the basic units of life and can perform all necessary functions for survival.

2. Metabolism: Living organisms have the ability to carry out metabolic processes, such as obtaining and using energy. They can break down molecules to release energy for growth, reproduction, and other activities.

3. Homeostasis: Living organisms maintain a stable internal environment by regulating their internal conditions. This ensures that necessary processes can occur within their cells, despite external changes.

4. Growth and development: Living organisms have the ability to grow and develop over time. They can increase in size and complexity through processes like cell division, differentiation, and maturation.

5. Reproduction: Living organisms can produce offspring through either sexual or asexual reproduction. This allows for the continuation of their species and the passing on of genetic information.

6. Adaptation: Living organisms are capable of adapting to changes in their environment. They can evolve and develop traits that enhance their survival and ability to reproduce over many generations.

To learn more about these characteristics and how scientists determine if something is alive, you can visit the website you mentioned: http://mimi.essortment.com/characteristics_rbrc.htm