A researcher observes an isolated system containing complex organic molecules undergoing spontaneous self-assembly into membrane-bound structures. These structures exhibit rudimentary metabolism but no reproduction or heritability. Which characteristic of life is the MOST significant barrier preventing these structures from being classified as living organisms?
Metabolism
Cellular organization
Reproduction and growth
Adaptation
Related Questions
Which of the following are considered as the twin characteristics of growth?
I. Responses to stimuli
II. Increases in mass
III. Increases in the number of individuals
IV. Increases in width
I and II
II and IV
I and III
III and IV
Which of the following are considered as the twin characteristics of growth?
I. Responses to stimuli
II. Increases in mass
III. Increases in the number of individuals
IV. Increases in width
I and II
II and IV
I and III
III and IV
