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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a characteristic shared by all living organisms?
A
They possess a backbone for structural support.
B
They are composed of one or more cells.
C
They reproduce only through sexual reproduction.
D
They can photosynthesize to produce energy.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the question, which asks for a characteristic shared by all living organisms. This means we are looking for a universal trait that applies to every living organism, regardless of its complexity or type.
Step 2: Evaluate each option provided in the question. For example, 'They possess a backbone for structural support' is incorrect because not all organisms have a backbone; only vertebrates do.
Step 3: Analyze the second option, 'They are composed of one or more cells.' This is a fundamental principle of biology known as the cell theory, which states that all living organisms are made up of cells. This is a universal characteristic shared by all life forms.
Step 4: Consider the third option, 'They reproduce only through sexual reproduction.' This is incorrect because many organisms reproduce asexually, such as bacteria and some plants and fungi.
Step 5: Examine the fourth option, 'They can photosynthesize to produce energy.' This is incorrect because not all organisms can photosynthesize; only certain organisms like plants, algae, and some bacteria have this ability. Therefore, the correct answer is the second option: 'They are composed of one or more cells.'