Is intrinsic growth defining property of living organisms?

Intrinsic growth is the ability of an organism to increase its size and complexity over time through cellular division and differentiation. This growth is a defining property of living organisms, but it is not the only one.

Characteristics defining living organisms

Living organisms have several characteristics that define them. These include:

1. Organization: Living organisms are highly organized structures that are composed of one or more cells. These cells are specialized to perform different functions within the organism.

2. Metabolism: Living organisms have a metabolism, which is the set of chemical reactions that occur within the body to maintain life. This includes processes like digestion, respiration, and circulation.

3. Homeostasis: Living organisms maintain a stable internal environment, despite changes in the external environment. This is achieved through feedback mechanisms that regulate body temperature, pH, and other factors.

4. Response to stimuli: Living organisms are able to respond to stimuli in their environment, such as light, temperature, and sound. This allows them to adapt to changes in their surroundings.

5. Reproduction: Living organisms are able to reproduce, either sexually or asexually, to produce offspring that are genetically similar to themselves.

Conclusion

Intrinsic growth is an important property of living organisms, but it is just one of many characteristics that define them. Living organisms are highly organized structures that have a metabolism, maintain homeostasis, respond to stimuli, and are able to reproduce. These properties are what make living organisms distinct from non-living things.

Yes intrinsic growth is the defining property of all living organisms, as no non-living organism can perform intrinsic growth they can only perform extrinsic growth.