Question

living and non living things
both living and nonliving things may range from simple to complex. consider a computer loaded with computer software. the computer and software are considered nonliving and yet this system may be capable of complex computations that exceed the ability of a human brain. now consider a sea sponge attached to the ocean floor. it is considered living, but an adult sponge cannot move around on its own nor does it have the ability to think.
scientists agree on four to eight characteristics that distinguish living organisms from nonliving objects. which one characteristic below would cause scientists to determine that an unknown object is living as opposed to nonliving?
a the observation of movement
b the presence of one or more cells
c the presence of organic macromolecules, such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids
d the ability of the object to use energy

Explanation:

All living organisms are made up of one or more cells. Movement can be exhibited by non - living things (e.g., wind - blown objects), organic macromolecules can be present in non - living things (e.g., fossil fuels), and non - living things can also use energy (e.g., machines). But the presence of cells is a fundamental characteristic of life.

Answer:

B. the presence of one or more cells