Submitted by Anonymous on 12/31/1998 10:00 PM Flag This Paper
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Characteristics of Life Project
As we explore biology, one mystery stands out above
all others. This question concerns the ability to
differenciate between living and non-living. Scientists
have compiled a list of characteristics of living organisms.
Reproduction is one of these attributes. This can result
in an exact duplication or variation of the origanal
organism. Growth and development, whether in the form of
aging or development from an acorn to a full-grown oak tree,
is also a characteristic of life. Two of the main factors
in the determination of living versus non-living are the
ability to evolve and having a composition of cells. These
cells are highly organized and just one can constitute a
living organism. Just as bears hibernate and sunflowers
face the sun, all living things respond to their
environment. Lastly, to enable growth and maintenance, all
life must consume or make energy.