Question

Which among the following is an exclusive trait of living things making it a defining characteristic?

A. Metabolism
B. Growth
C. Consciousness
D. Increase in size

• A. Isolated metabolic reactions occur in vitro
• B. Increase in mass from inside the body
• C. Perception of events happening in the environment and their memory
• D. Increase in mass by accumulation of materials both internally and externally

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. Consciousness.

All organisms from prokaryotic to the most complex eukaryotes can sense and respond to environmental events. This ability is consciousness where there are some changes in the living things due to changes in the environment causing a stimulus. All organisms do not possess a highly advanced nervous system, but they still respond to environmental changes.
Cellular metabolism is a defining characteristic of living things. Isolated metabolic reactions in vitro are not living things but are living reactions. Hence, option A) is incorrect.
Although some non living things like mountains, sand mounds, crystals also grow, their growth is due to the addition of matter from outside. Hence, options B) and C) are incorrect.