Which of the following is a characteristic that is not present in all living things?

• A. Response to stimuli
• B. Metabolism
• C. Photosynthesis
• D. Ability to reproduce

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the characteristics that define living organisms. These typically include response to stimuli, metabolism, growth, reproduction, and cellular organization.
2. Consider the characteristic 'response to stimuli.' This refers to the ability of an organism to react to changes in its environment, which is a common trait among all living things.
3. Next, examine 'metabolism.' Metabolism encompasses all chemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life, including energy production and utilization, which is essential for all living organisms.
4. Now, look at 'ability to reproduce.' Reproduction is the biological process by which new individual organisms are produced, ensuring the continuation of a species, and is a fundamental characteristic of life.
5. Finally, consider 'photosynthesis.' Photosynthesis is a process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy. However, not all living organisms perform photosynthesis, as it is specific to certain groups of organisms.