Characteristics of Life

Unifying themes of biology Section 1.2 Unifying themes of biology

All living things share certain characteristics Made of Cells: Some are unicellular, but most are multi-cellular.

Respond to a Stimulus: Stimulus  anything (internal of external) that causes a response Response  an internal or external reaction

Need for Energy Chemical Energy Producers – use sunlight to create their own food Consumers – get their energy from other sources Metabolism – chemical processes that build up or break down materials

Reproduce The ability to make new individuals and pass on DNA Asexual vs. Sexual

Necessary for survival Homeostasis Maintaining constant internal conditions Body temp, blood sugar, acidity