Characteristics of living organisms

Cells

Smallest unit of life, but multiple cells can organize together to make a function

Highly organized

Living organisms are highly organized, in that the smallest unit of life is a cell. Then cells come together to form, tissue, then organ systems, and finally organisms.

Grow and develop

Living organisms change in size and form with time

Reproduce

Living organisms can make additional organisms

Homeostasis

Living things keep their bodies interdental stats stable despite external changes.

Responds to stimuli

Living organisms react to information in their environment.

Use/need energy and metabolism

Living organisms use energy to do several of the other characteristics.

Evolve over time

Living populations change over time due to different survival and reproduction. The outcome of evolution is often adaptations, which can help organisms be better suited for their environment.

Based on genetic code

Living organisms contain genetic material that makes individuals unique. This genetic code is DNA.