Life - Page 160
Life refers to the condition or characteristic that distinguishes living organisms from inanimate matter, characterized by processes such as growth, reproduction, functional activity, and continual change preceding death. It encompasses a variety of biological processes, including metabolism, response to stimuli, adaptation through evolution, and maintenance of homeostasis. Life can manifest in various forms, ranging from simple single-celled organisms like bacteria to complex multicellular entities like plants, animals, and humans.The study of life, known as biology, investigates the physical and chemical processes that underlie living systems, the interactions of organisms with each other and their environments, and the mechanisms of inheritance and evolution. Life is also often associated with consciousness and the ability to experience sensations, although not all living beings exhibit these traits. Ultimately, life is a fundamental concept in understanding the natural world and our place within it.
