Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of living things?

The ability to photosynthesize is not a characteristic that applies to all living things; it is a specific process found in certain organisms, notably plants, algae, and some bacteria. Photosynthesis is the method by which these organisms convert sunlight into chemical energy by synthesizing food from carbon dioxide and water. However, many living things, such as animals and fungi, do not possess the capability to photosynthesize, as they obtain energy through different means, such as consuming other organisms.

In contrast, the other characteristics—ability to reproduce, response to the environment, and growth and development—are fundamental traits of all living organisms. Reproduction ensures the continuation of a species, responding to the environment is crucial for survival, and growth and development are essential processes that all living beings undergo as they progress through life. These traits are indeed universal to life, highlighting the diverse biological processes across different life forms.