Discuss the six basic life processes and your own example for each.
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Metabolism is the sum of all the chemical processes that occur in the body. It is divided into two phases, namely catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism refers to the breakdown of complex substances into simpler components, while anabolism deals with the building up of complex substances from simpler components. An example of metabolism is seen in glycolysis. The metabolic process occurs when glucose is broken down to produce energy that will be released by the body.
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Responsiveness is the body’s ability to detect and respond to changes. For example, whenever we experience pain, the body’s response to it is the release of pain signals through the nerves, heightened blood pressure, increased breathing rate, and the release of stress hormones.
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Movement refers to the motion of the body, organs, and cells. An example of this is the movement of the lungs as we breathe. Whenever we inhale, the diaphragm contracts and the chest cavity expands. On the other hand, the diaphragm relaxes and air is forced out of the lungs whenever we exhale.
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Growth is an increase in body size. This is typically caused by an increase in cell size, an increase in the number of cells, or both. One of the simplest examples of growth is shown in our height, especially throughout childhood and adolescence. Evident changes in height are typically seen during these periods.
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Differentiation is defined as the development of a cell from an unspecialized to a specialized state. For example, stem cells undergo the process of maturation and alteration in gene expression which results in the production of different cells with more specific functions.
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Reproduction can either refer to cell formation or the production of an offspring. To give an example for the latter, human reproduction occurs when an egg cell unites with a sperm cell. After the fertilization of the egg cell, the fertilized egg is then implanted in the uterus and grows into a zygote, progresses into an embryo, then finally into a fetus.