Lecture Notes: Life and Characteristics of Living Organisms

Flashcards covering the key characteristics of life as presented in the notes.

Biology

The study of life.

Life

A set of characteristics that distinguish living organisms from nonliving things.

Cell

The basic unit of all living things.

Organization

Living things are organized and composed of parts with specific structures and functions; the basic unit is the cell.

Growth

Progressive increase in size and volume through natural development.

Reproduction

The ability of living things to reproduce, either sexually or asexually.

Respond to Stimuli

Living things respond to external stimuli.

Metabolism

Living things take in energy and nutrients from the environment and use them to sustain life.

Homeostasis

Maintenance of a stable internal environment (chemical, temperature) different from surroundings.

Movement

Living things move, either externally or internally.

Adaptation

Living things adjust to their environment over time.