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Which Statement Describes All Living Things?
All living things share certain characteristics that differentiate them from non-living entities. The statement that describes all living things is: “Living things are made up of cells, obtain and use energy, grow and develop, reproduce, respond to their environment, and have the ability to adapt.”
Living organisms are composed of cells, which are the basic building blocks of life. These cells work together to form tissues, organs, and organ systems, allowing for the proper functioning of an organism. Whether it is a plant, animal, or microorganism, all living things are made up of cells.
Obtaining and using energy is another key characteristic of living things. Organisms require energy to carry out their various life processes, such as growth, reproduction, and movement. Plants obtain energy through photosynthesis, while animals acquire energy by consuming other organisms.
Living things also have the ability to grow and develop. From the moment of conception, organisms undergo a series of changes throughout their life cycle. Growth involves an increase in size, while development refers to the maturation and specialization of cells and tissues.
Reproduction is another fundamental feature of living things. Organisms have the ability to produce offspring, ensuring the continuation of their species. Reproduction can occur through asexual means, such as budding or binary fission, or sexual reproduction involving the fusion of gametes.
Living organisms also possess the ability to respond to their environment. They can detect and react to stimuli, such as light, temperature, sound, or touch. These responses enable organisms to adapt and survive in their surroundings.
Lastly, living things have the capacity to adapt to their environment. Over time, they can undergo changes that enhance their chances of survival and reproduction. This ability to adapt is crucial for species to thrive in different habitats, as it allows them to adjust to new conditions and overcome challenges.
FAQs:
Q: Are viruses considered living things?
A: Viruses are a subject of debate when it comes to categorizing them as living or non-living. They possess some characteristics of living things, such as the ability to reproduce, but lack others, such as the ability to carry out metabolic processes. Therefore, the classification of viruses as living or non-living remains controversial.
Q: Can non-living things exhibit some characteristics of living organisms?
A: Non-living things may exhibit some characteristics similar to living organisms, but they do not possess all the necessary attributes to be classified as living. For example, a fire can grow and respond to its environment by spreading, but it does not possess cells or reproduce.
Q: Are all living things visible to the naked eye?
A: No, not all living things are visible to the naked eye. Microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses are too small to be seen without the aid of a microscope. Additionally, there are organisms living in extreme environments, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents or underground caves, that are not easily observable without specialized equipment.
Q: Can living things adapt to any environment?
A: Living things have the ability to adapt to a wide range of environments, but there are limits to their adaptability. Each species has specific adaptations that allow them to survive and reproduce in particular conditions. Extreme environments, such as extreme cold or high levels of radiation, may be beyond the adaptability of many organisms.
In conclusion, the statement that describes all living things is that they are made up of cells, obtain and use energy, grow and develop, reproduce, respond to their environment, and have the ability to adapt. These characteristics distinguish living organisms from non-living entities and highlight the remarkable complexity and diversity of life on Earth.
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