Characteristics of Living Organisms

These flashcards cover the fundamental characteristics of living organisms as outlined in the Edexcel IGCSE Biology notes.

What does the acronym MRS. H GREN stand for in the context of characteristics of living organisms?

Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Homeostasis, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, Nutrition.

What is required for an organism to be considered living?

All eight characteristics: Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Homeostasis, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, and Nutrition must be present.

How do animals typically achieve movement?

Animals move their entire bodies to get from one place to another, often rapidly to catch prey.

What is a key example of an animal that moves rapidly?

The cheetah, which can reach speeds of up to 70 mph.

What is the process through which plants and animals convert glucose into energy?

Aerobic respiration.

What is the equation for aerobic respiration?

OXYGEN + GLUCOSE → CARBON DIOXIDE + WATER + ENERGY.

What do living organisms respond to, and what are these changes called?

They respond to changes known as stimuli.

How do human hands demonstrate sensitivity?

The human hand contains millions of receptors in the fingertips that can detect different stimuli.

What is homeostasis?

The ability to regulate the internal conditions of the body to keep them constant.

Why is growth important for living organisms?

Growth increases the likelihood of survival, allowing organisms to better defend themselves.

What are the two types of reproduction that animals can use?

Sexual and asexual reproduction.

What role do pollinators like bees play in plant reproduction?

They help to fertilize and reproduce plants through pollination.

What is excretion, and why is it necessary for living organisms?

Excretion is the removal of waste products from metabolic processes to prevent toxic build-up.

How do mammals and plants perform excretion?

Mammals use kidneys to excrete waste, while plants use stomata.

What is the difference between heterotrophy and autotrophy?

Heterotrophy is when animals derive energy from consuming other organisms, while autotrophy is when plants create their own food through photosynthesis.

What is essential for optimum nutrition in humans?

A balanced diet of fruits and vegetables.