distinguish between growth, development and differentiation. Give two examples of each.

Answer 1

Growth: Growth refers to the physical increase in size or quantity of an organism or system. It can be measured by increases in height, mass, or volume.

Example 1: A seedling growing into a fully matured tree.
Example 2: A child growing from infancy to adolescence.

Development: Development refers to the overall progress and improvement of an organism or system in terms of complexity, capabilities, and functioning. It involves acquiring new skills, knowledge, or behaviors.

Example 1: A caterpillar developing into a butterfly through metamorphosis.
Example 2: A person developing social, emotional, and cognitive abilities throughout their life.

Differentiation: Differentiation refers to the process where cells or tissues become specialized in structure and function to perform specific roles within an organism.

Example 1: Stem cells differentiating into various cell types such as muscle cells, nerve cells, and blood cells during embryonic development.
Example 2: The differentiation of plant cells into roots, stems, and leaves, each with distinct functions.