, Life is a unique, complex organization of molecules, expressing through chemical
reactions which lead to growth, development, responsiveness, adaptation &
reproduction.
It is the increase in number, mass and size of cells.
In plants, growth by cell division occurs continuously throughout their life span.
In animals, growth is only up to a certain age. However, cell division occurs in certain tissues
to replace lost cells.
Non-living objects grow by accumulation of material on the surface. In living organisms,
growth is from inside.
It is the production of progeny having features similar to those of parents.
Organisms reproduce asexually and sexually.
Growth is the increase in cell number or mass. Hence in unicellular organisms, growth &
reproduction are same.
Many organisms do not reproduce (e.g. mules, worker bees, infertile human couples, etc).
Hence, reproduction is not a perfect defining characteristic of living organisms.
reactions which lead to growth, development, responsiveness, adaptation &
reproduction.
It is the increase in number, mass and size of cells.
In plants, growth by cell division occurs continuously throughout their life span.
In animals, growth is only up to a certain age. However, cell division occurs in certain tissues
to replace lost cells.
Non-living objects grow by accumulation of material on the surface. In living organisms,
growth is from inside.
It is the production of progeny having features similar to those of parents.
Organisms reproduce asexually and sexually.
Growth is the increase in cell number or mass. Hence in unicellular organisms, growth &
reproduction are same.
Many organisms do not reproduce (e.g. mules, worker bees, infertile human couples, etc).
Hence, reproduction is not a perfect defining characteristic of living organisms.
