Characteristics of Living Organisms “What does it mean to be alive?”
All organisms must share all of the following 8 characteristics in order to be classified as living Made up of cells- unicellular or multicellular Highly organized- complexity increases The ability to reproduce- asexually or sexually They grow and develop They respond to their environment (irritability) They maintain an internal balance (homeostasis) They metabolize (use energy) They have a life span
The Organization of Life Complex Simple