Defining life — property shared by living and non-living entities Living organisms display many complex characteristics. Which of the following is also found in non-living matter and thus is not unique to life?

Introduction / Context:
While life is defined by a suite of properties (organization, metabolism, growth, reproduction, response, homeostasis, evolution), some underlying features exist in both living and non-living matter. Distinguishing unique biological traits from general physical properties avoids category errors in biology education.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We compare core criteria for life with attributes of non-living matter.
• Molecules are fundamental units of chemistry present in all matter.
• Biological processes such as homeostasis and reproduction require living systems.

Concept / Approach:
Non-living matter can consist of complex molecular assemblies (for example, minerals, synthetic polymers) without exhibiting biological organization or functions like homeostasis. Therefore, “molecules” are not diagnostic for life, whereas tissues, metabolism, and reproduction are emergent properties of living systems (though non-biological self-replication or catalysis can occur in limited contexts, they do not constitute life on their own).

Step-by-Step Solution:
List biological characteristics and ask which appears in non-living matter.Recognize that molecules exist universally in both living and non-living systems.Conclude that “molecules” is the shared feature and thus the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Introductory biology frameworks emphasize that matter and energy are universal; what distinguishes life is organization and function, not the mere presence of molecules.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A: Homeostasis is a regulatory phenomenon of living organisms.
• B: Tissues are living cellular organizations.
• C: Biological reproduction is an attribute of life.
• E: Metabolism is hallmark of life; non-living matter lacks enzyme-driven networks.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating chemical reactions in non-living systems with metabolism; metabolism is highly regulated and enzyme-mediated within cells.

Final Answer:
Molecules (chemical entities such as water, lipids, and proteins)