Question

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of living organisms?

• A. Response to external stimuli
• B. Ability to make sound
• C. Reproduction
• D. Growth

Answer 1

The correct option is A Response to external stimuli

Characteristic of living organisms

• Growth takes place in non-living things although it is external.
• Non-living things can also make sounds.
• Reproduction means giving rise to offspring, but some living beings are infertile.
• All living organisms respond to environmental stimuli like light, temperature, touch etc

Thus amongst the given characteristics, response to stimuli is the only characteristic which is exclusively seen in living organisms. Therefore it is a defining property of living organisms.