In 5-7 sentences, What are the 5 characteristics of living things?
The five characteristics of living things are:
1. Organization: Living things are highly organized and structured. They are composed of cells, which are the basic building blocks of life, and these cells work together to form tissues, organs, and ultimately, entire organisms. This organization allows living things to carry out specific functions and maintain homeostasis.
2. Growth and Development: Living things have the ability to grow and develop over time. They start from a single cell and gradually increase in size, while also undergoing changes in structure and function. This growth and development is controlled by genetic information encoded in DNA, which guides the organism's progression from an embryo to a fully matured individual.
3. Reproduction: Living things are capable of reproducing either sexually or asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two gametes (sperm and egg) from two parents, resulting in offspring that have a unique combination of genetic traits. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, involves the generation of offspring that are genetically identical to the parent. Reproduction is essential for the continuation of a species.
4. Metabolism: Living things possess the ability to obtain and utilize energy from their surroundings. This energy is used to carry out various life processes, such as growth, movement, reproduction, and maintaining internal balance (homeostasis). Metabolism involves the chemical reactions that occur within an organism to break down nutrients and convert them into energy, as well as to build new molecules that are needed for growth and repair.
5. Response to Stimuli: Living things are capable of responding to changes in their environment. They can detect and respond to various stimuli, such as temperature, light, sound, and touch. This responsiveness allows living things to adapt and adjust their behavior in order to survive and thrive in their surroundings.