1.3 Studying Life

Characteristics of Living Things

Biology The Greek word bios means “life,” and -logy means “study of.” Biology is the study of life!!

Characteristics of Living Things No single characteristic is enough to describe a living thing. Some nonliving things posses the traits of living organisms. There are 8 traits that most living things have in common.

1. Living things are based on a “universal genetic code” Information about the organism is stored in DNA All living things have DNA

2. Living things grow and develop Cells divide leading to growth Cells specialize leading to body parts, organs, etc.

3. Living things respond to their environment Detect stimuli with senses and respond Example: hot outside- body sweats

4. Living things are made up of cells Cells are the smallest units considered fully alive Individual cells can grow, respond to stimuli, and reproduce!

5. Living things reproduce Produce new, similar organisms Sexual or asexual reproduction

6. Living things maintain a stable internal environment Inside the organism stays the same even when the environment changes- homeostasis. Example: body temp is 98.6°F even when it is freezing outside.

7. Living things maintain and use material and energy Food provides energy and nutrients to grow, develop, and reproduce.

8. Living things, taken as a group, evolve Groups of organisms change over time based on survival needs.