Scientists distinguish whether an entity is living or nonliving by describing the of life.

characteristics

value

length

quality

characteristics

Explanation:

There are certain defined characteristics of life that are shared by all living organisms ranging from smallest bacteria to the largest living organism and without these characteristics there will be no life.

The following are the characteristics that define a living organism:

1. All living organisms are made up of cells.

2. The living organisms have various levels of organisation.

3. There is utilisation of energy by the living organisms.

4. The living organisms have the ability to respond to the environment around them.

5. The living organisms have the ability to grow and to develop.

6. The living organism have the ability to reproduce and give rise ot new individuals so as to maintain continuity.

7. The living organisms have the ability to adapt according to their environment so as to survive better.