On what grounds can living organisms be distinguished from bodies of non-living nature?

All living things share life processes such as reproduction and growth. Seven vital characteristics are used to determine if something is alive or inanimate.

Motion. All living things move in some way.

Breath. Breathing is a chemical reaction that takes place in cells to release energy from food.

Sensitivity. The ability to detect changes in the environment.

Growth. All living things grow.

Reproduction is the ability to reproduce offspring and pass on genetic information to them.

Selection. Disposal of waste.

Nutrition is the process of consuming and using nutrients. This happens in different ways for different living beings.