All organisms are made up of cells.
Cells are the basic unit of life.
Cells contain DNA, which is the genetic material.
DNA determines the characteristics of an organism.
Organisms reproduce to create new organisms.
Reproduction involves the passing on of DNA from one generation to the next.
Organisms respond to their environment.
Organisms grow and develop.
Organisms maintain homeostasis, which is a stable internal environment.
Organisms obtain energy from food.
Energy is used to carry out life processes.
Organisms eliminate waste products.
Different kinds of plants, animals, and microorganisms
There are many different kinds of plants, animals, and microorganisms.
These different organisms have different structures, functions, and behaviors.
However, all organisms share the basic similarities listed above.
How can there be so many similarities among organisms yet different kinds of plants, animals, and microorganisms?
The similarities among organisms are due to the fact that all organisms share a common ancestor.
The different kinds of plants, animals, and microorganisms have evolved from this common ancestor over time.
Evolution is the process by which organisms change over time.
Evolution occurs through the process of natural selection.
Natural selection is the process by which organisms that are better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Through the process of evolution, organisms have developed different structures, functions, and behaviors that allow them to survive in different environments.
However, all organisms share the basic similarities that are necessary for life.