Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

What defines an organism?

1. A biological agent causing disease

2. An independent life form

3. A type of microorganism only

4. A product of cellular replication

The correct answer is: An independent life form

An organism is defined as an independent life form that possesses all the characteristics of life, which include growth, reproduction, responsiveness to stimuli, and metabolism. This definition encompasses a broad range of entities, from single-celled bacteria to complex multicellular organisms like plants and animals. The emphasis on being an independent life form highlights the ability of an organism to exist autonomously, distinct from non-living entities or dependent life forms. In contrast, other definitions provided are too narrow. For instance, describing an organism solely as a biological agent causing disease would exclude many beneficial organisms, such as those involved in food production or natural ecosystems. The characterization as a type of microorganism only also limits the definition, as it doesn't account for larger organisms. Finally, stating that an organism is a product of cellular replication overlooks the necessity for the organism to function independently, as this definition could apply to individual cells rather than complete life forms.