Biotic / Abiotic

Bio = lifeBiotic = of life (living)

Abiotic = not of lifeology = study ofBiology = study of life

How does Science define life?

•Grow•Reproduce•Respond•Use Energy

All four criteria must be met to considered alive!

Grow – repair, replace, or add new cells Reproduce – next generation = parent reproducing offspring

Sexual – genetic hereditary information (DNA) from two sources = varietyAsexual - genetic hereditary information (DNA) from one source = simplicity

Respond – act on stimulus

Motile – can change locationSessile – fixed position

Use energy

Autotrophic – producer using photosynthesis to covert energy from SunHeterotrophic – consumer that feeds on other organisms

Abiotic

Organisms that meet the four criteria of life and the naturally occurring structures of those organisms.

Biotic

Substances that never met the criteria of life. Also, formerly biotic matter that has been heavily processed and is no longer associated with life. Example: A wooden desk.