Biology/Biology
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Question
What is the MAJOR characteristic of all organisms?
Hi Leslie: Thanks for your question.
We generally list a few things that are required to classify something as living. I guess those would be the MAJOR things!
Cells - all living things are composed of cells
Organization - cells are organized
Energy use - organisms take in and convert energy
Homeostasis - organisms maintain their inner environment
Growth - organisms grow
Reproduction - organisms reproduce
Obviously, viruses fall into a "gray" area, since they use the cell's machinery to reproduce.
If I had to pick one, I would choose reproduction, since it encompasses all the others.
I hope this answer has helped you.
Please write back if you have more questions.
FM Rollwagen, PhD
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Answers by Expert:
Florence M Rollwagen
Expertise
I can answer questions in biology, microbiology and immunology on the undergraduate or graduate level. I can also address medical and health concerns regarding alternative medicine, autoimmune diseases (lupus, MS) liver disease and intestinal problems.
Experience
I have over 20 years experience in research and teaching at the medical/graduate level, and 5 years teaching college biology and microbiology. My expertise is in microbiology and immunology, specifically the biology of cytokines and soluble immune response modifiers. I also carried out original research in blood substitutes and shock/trauma.
Organizations
American Association of Immunologists (AAI)
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Publications
Journal of Experimental Medicine, Journal of Immunology, Cytokine, Shock, Experimental Hematology
Education/Credentials
BS biology 1966
MS biology 1968
PhD immunology 1979
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