Questions and Answers
What is the basic unit of life?
Which of the following processes is NOT a method of obtaining energy for organisms?
Which characteristic describes an organism's ability to maintain constant internal conditions?
What type of reproduction involves the union of gametes?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following best describes evolution?
Signup and view all the answers
Which statement is true about unicellular and multicellular organisms?
Signup and view all the answers
In terms of a stimulus, how do organisms typically respond?
Signup and view all the answers
What process is not a common method of reproduction in living things?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Common Characteristics of Living Things
- The cell is the fundamental unit of life; organisms can be unicellular or multicellular.
- Reproduction can occur sexually (involving gametes) or asexually (e.g., budding, fission).
- DNA carries the universal genetic code and is essential for the inheritance of traits.
- Growth and development occur over time; examples include metamorphosis such as caterpillars transforming into butterflies.
- Organisms obtain energy through various methods, including eating, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration which fuels their metabolic processes.
- All living things must respond to environmental stimuli (light, temperature, touch, sound) for survival.
- Homeostasis is crucial for maintaining a stable internal environment, ensuring balance within an organism.
- Evolution refers to the gradual change and adaptation of living organisms over generations.
Types of Cells
- Cells can be classified into prokaryotic (bacteria and protists) and eukaryotic (plants, animals, fungi).
- Multicellular organisms consist of specialized cells that perform different functions, while unicellular organisms exist as a single cell.
Reproduction
- Offspring can be produced via asexual methods, including budding and fission, or through sexual reproduction, which involves the union of gametes.
- Genetic information is transferred to offspring, leading to family resemblance and the formation of traits encoded in DNA.
Energy Acquisition
- Organisms acquire energy through various means: consumption of food, sunlight via photosynthesis, or through metabolic processes that convert energy for use.
Stimulus Response
- The ability to react to environmental changes is essential for survival, allowing organisms to adapt and thrive in diverse conditions.
Homeostasis
- Maintaining a constant internal environment is vital for an organism's health and functionality, achieving balance regardless of external changes.
Evolution
- Change in species and adaptations occurs over time, significantly influencing the development and survival of living organisms.
Viruses
- Viruses are classified as non-living entities since they do not exhibit the characteristics of living things as defined above.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz covers the eight common characteristics that define living organisms. Participants will explore concepts such as cell structure, reproduction, growth, energy acquisition, and responses to stimuli. Test your understanding of what it means to be alive!
