Which is a characteristic of living organisms?

Living organisms exhibit several fundamental characteristics that define life, and the correct choice highlights some of the most essential traits. Growth, reproduction, responding to stimuli, and metabolism are core characteristics of living beings.

Growth refers to the increase in size or mass of an organism over time, which is a clear indicator of life. Reproduction allows for the continuation of species, either through sexual or asexual means. Responding to stimuli demonstrates an organism's ability to interact with its environment; this adaptability is crucial for survival. Metabolism encompasses all the biochemical processes that occur within an organism to maintain life, including the conversion of food into energy, supporting growth and other life functions.

While the ability to fly, high energy consumption, and the ability to maintain a constant temperature might apply to certain organisms, they do not encompass the universal characteristics that define all living things. Therefore, the correct answer encompasses the broad and fundamental attributes that all living organisms share.