Characteristics of Life Notes

All living things have some characteristics in common; we call these the characteristics of life. If any living thing doesn’t have that characteristic, it is not a characteristic of life. Non-living things may have some of the characteristics of life, but if they are missing even one characteristic, they are not living.

Cells All living things are made up of cells. Cells are the smallest unit capable of performing all living functions.

Need Energy All organisms need energy to live. Some living things obtain energy by eating other living things. Other living things make food by taking in energy in other forms (plants use the sun’s energy – photosynthesis)

Reproduction Living things must replace themselves

DNA As living things reproduce, they pass on some of their traits to their babies. Traits are passed down through genes carried on DNA. The combination of traits from two different parents can lead to babies that look a little different from both parents.

Growth Living things get bigger and change.

Respond to Stimuli React to things Examples: An animal runs to avoid being eaten, plants grow towards the light, we put on a jacket when we’re cold

Requirements for Life (Needs for Life) Water Exchange gases - Some living things breathe in oxygen and release carbon dioxide as waste; plants “breathe” in carbon dioxide and release oxygen as waste.