WHAT IS LIFE?

H O G R A C E R

- An organism (living thing) is anything that has all characteristics of life

- There are 8 characteristics of life and an organism must have all of them to be considered living.

Living things: 1) maintain homeostasis – (homeo = same stasis = conditions) - Some organisms have the ability to maintain stable conditions internally even when their external surroundings change. This is maintaining homeostasis.

2) are organized -Organisms have structures (parts) that have specific functions (jobs). Digestive System

3) grow and develop -grow – to get larger in size. -develop – to mature in appearance.

4) Reproduce -organisms produce offspring. -species – organisms that have the ability to breed and produce viable offspring.

5) adapt and evolve Organisms adapt to their surroundings in order to survive - The evolution of a new species can occur as a result of adaptations.

Organisms made of I cell are unicellular 6) are made up of cells. Organisms made of I cell are unicellular cyanobacteria - Organisms made of more than 1 cell are multicellular. Onion root

7) obtain and use energy. Organisms can obtain energy by eating or using the sun to make food. - Organisms use energy to do work.

8) Respond and adjust to their surroundings.   - If the organisms surroundings change, then the organism will adjust to the change.

Remember: All organisms have DNA (genetic material). The study of life is called biology. Bio – life logy- study of