_______is the defining character of all living organism

Options

A. Reproduction
B. Metabolism
C. Consciousness
D. Growth

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the defining characteristic of all living organisms. This means we need to identify a fundamental trait that distinguishes living beings from non-living entities.

2. **Identifying Key Characteristics**: Living organisms exhibit several characteristics such as growth, reproduction, response to stimuli, and metabolism. However, we need to determine which of these is the most defining.

3. **Defining Metabolism**: Metabolism refers to the sum total of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism. It includes processes such as the synthesis of biomolecules and the breakdown of substances for energy.

4. **Metabolism as a Unique Feature**: Metabolism is unique to living organisms. It is essential for maintaining life, as it allows organisms to convert food into energy, grow, and repair tissues. This characteristic is not found in non-living things.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the understanding of metabolism and its role in living organisms, we conclude that the defining character of all living organisms is **metabolism**.

**Final Answer**: Metabolism is the defining character of all living organisms.

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