This document discusses the key characteristics of living things. It lists seven characteristics that most living things have in common: 1) movement, 2) use of energy, 3) growth and development, 4) response to the environment, 5) reproduction, 6) homeostasis, and 7) being made of cells. It also explains that organisms are made up of elements like hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen, which form compounds. The most common compounds found in organisms are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

1. Life Science Chapt 2 Spring 06’

2. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) List 5 things that are alive- How are these things different than a rock? What do you think it really means to be alive?

3. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Most living things move in some way. MOVEMENT

5. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Growth and Development Living things all grow and change. Whether talking about a person or a tree changes will take place as long as the organism is alive.

6. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Responding to the Environment Organisms respond to the environment around them. What are some common responses to your environment?

8. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Reproduction All organisms must reproduce-offspring are the result of reproduction. Sexual- Two members of the same species are needed Asexual- One member of a species splits into two

9. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Made of cells Cells are the building blocks of life

10. Made of cells Cells are the building blocks of life Cells are the basic structure and function in all living things. Most cells are too small to be seen without a microscope. Multicellular- Organisms that have more than one cell Unicellular- An Organism that has only one cell

11. 7 Characteristics of living things (Organisms) Homeostasis The ability to maintain a stable internal conditions.

12. Molecule: The smallest part of a compound Compound: A combination of two or more elements Chemistry of Organisms

13. Compounds in living things Lipids Mostly C, H Fats & Oils Store energy Nucleic Acids Transfer genes Produce proteins Proteins Chemical Reactions Build & repair cells Carbohydrates C, H, O Provide energy Organism

14. Chemistry of Organisms H-10% C-18% O-65% N-3% Other Stuff-4% Atoms- the smallest particle of an element that can still be identified as that element Element- pure substance that is made up of the same kinds of atoms