1. Organization: Living things are highly organized, with specialized structures (cells, tissues, organs) that work together.
2. Metabolism: All living organisms carry out chemical reactions to obtain and use energy for growth, maintenance, and reproduction. This involves breaking down nutrients (catabolism) and building complex molecules (anabolism).
3. Growth: Living organisms increase in size and complexity over time. This can involve producing new cells or enlarging existing ones.
4. Reproduction: Living organisms create new individuals to ensure the continuation of their species. This can be sexual (involving two parents) or asexual (involving only one parent).
5. Response to stimuli: Living organisms react to changes in their environment, both internal and external. This allows them to adapt and survive.
6. Homeostasis: Living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment. This includes regulating temperature, pH, and other vital factors.
These six processes are fundamental to all living organisms and define what it means to be alive.