Question

The bacteria species known as Escherichia coli is capable of using oxygen to produce energy in a process known as respiration. It can also produce energy if no oxygen is available by using a process called fermentation. This ability is BEST described by which of these characteristics of living things? A) use a common genetic code B) reproduce and produce offspring C) respond to stimuli in the environment D) move actively through the environment

Answer 1

The answer is C respond to stimuli in the environment

Answer 2

Answer:

(C). respond to stimuli in the environment.

Explanation:

Response towards the stimuli is a major characteristic of life. Stimuli is anything, which causes a living being to react to stay in balance.

Escherichia coli is a bacterium that uses process of respiration for energy production. It can perform both aerobic respiration depending upon the presence or absence of oxygen (stimulus).

As this bacterium is responding to surrounding stimulus (oxygen), it describes a characteristic of life.

Thus, the correct answer is option (C).