Life processes of living things refer to the essential functions that sustain life and enable organisms to grow, reproduce, and adapt to their environments. These processes can be categorized into four basic functions:
- Nutrition - the intake and utilization of nutrients for energy, growth, and cellular maintenance.
- Respiration - the biochemical process of converting food into energy by using oxygen or through anaerobic means.
- Movement - the ability of organisms to move or respond to stimuli, which may involve physical movement or the internal movement of substances within cells.
- Reproduction - the biological process by which living organisms produce new individuals, ensuring the continuation of their species.
Together, these processes are fundamental to life, allowing organisms to interact with their environment and perpetuate their existence.