 |
| Definition of Life and Characteristics of Living Organisms |
Definition of Life
Defining life is complex as it is a unique comprising of various elements such as biology, physical process and chemical characteristics. However, a scientist has tried to come up with a definition of life. according to a scientist
“Life is a unique, complex organisation of ions and molecules which perform certain chemical reactions in order to bring about life activities” From small amoeba that is a bacteria to great size giraffes, small herbs to large trees, all exhibit the signs of being living. Talking about living organisms, there are some of the characteristics of living organisms that they exhibit, let's look at some of the Characteristics of living organisms Living organisms have some common characteristics which can be stated as,
Characteristics of Living Organisms
- Definite Shape & Size
- Organ System
- Growth
- Reproduction
- Metabolism
- Homeostasis
Definite Shape & Size
All living organisms show characteristics of having a defined shape, which may change as they get old, and time passes. Also compared each individual will, may have a different shape and size as well.
Organ Systems
All living organisms, from plan to animals and human beings have organ system which helps to perform various functions that are essential for living and survival. Organs have different types of tissues to perform different kinds of functions in living organisms
Growth
All living organisms exhibit growth. Growth is an irreversible process be it plant, animal or human being. Growth occurs when cells are divided, enlarged and differentiated.
Reproduction
All living organisms have the capability of reproduction. Unicellular organisms reproduce by splitting their cells, Yeast and Hydra reproduce by the process of budding, and Bacteria reproduce by the process of fission. In the human species, reproduction is achieved by the process of sex.
Metabolism
The cells of living organisms possess about 5000 different chemical types which take part in many chemical reactions, all these chemical reactions inside living cells are collectively termed as metabolism. It can be defined as the exchange of energy within an organism.
Homeostasis
Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms keep themselves stable by maintaining internal conditions in adverse temperatures, acidity and other physiological factors.