What is life? The science of biology is all about trying to answer this deceivingly simple question. In this chapter we will explore the big questions and concepts of biology and learn the method that scientists, including biologists, use to answer this very important question.

What is life?

Life is a characteristic that distinguishes physical entities that have biological processes, such as signaling and self-sustaining processes, from those that do not, either because such functions have ceased, or because they never had such functions and are classified as inanimate

when a reversible reaction is occurring in both directions at the same rate; the products and reactants do not change in concentration. a chemical reaction where the compound is broken into its constituent parts.

c

explanation: