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Which of the following statements about living and non-living being is/are correct? 1. While living being can demonstrate growth and repair, non-living being cannot. 2. While living being demonstrates metabolic processes, non-living being does not. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Living organisms are distinguished from non-living things by several fundamental life processes. Statement 1 is correct as living beings must constantly repair and maintain their structures through molecular movement [1]. Growth is a unique characteristic of living organisms, involving development over time, which non-living objects do not exhibit [2]. Statement 2 is also correct because metabolism—the sum of chemical reactions within cells—is a defining trait of life [1]. While non-living things lack metabolic activity, living organisms use metabolism to obtain and use energy for survival [3]. Even dormant life forms like spores are categorized by their lack of metabolic activity compared to active living states [2]. Non-living things do not show traits such as reproduction, growth, or metabolism [2]. Therefore, both statements accurately describe the distinctions between living and non-living entities.
Sources
- [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > p. 79
- [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 1: Ecology > r.3.6. Biosphere > p. 10
- [3] https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/education/alp/characteristics-of-life/