<P> All cells share several similar characteristics of: </P> <Ul> <Li> Reproduction by cell division (binary fission, mitosis or meiosis). </Li> <Li> Use of enzymes and other proteins coded by DNA genes and made via messenger RNA intermediates and ribosomes . </Li> <Li> Metabolism, including taking in raw materials, building cell components, converting energy, molecules and releasing by - products . The functioning of a cell depends upon its ability to extract and use chemical energy stored in organic molecules . This energy is derived from metabolic pathways . </Li> <Li> Response to external and internal stimuli such as changes in temperature, pH or nutrient levels . </Li> <Li> Cell contents are contained within a cell surface membrane that contains proteins and a lipid bilayer . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Reproduction by cell division (binary fission, mitosis or meiosis). </Li> <Li> Use of enzymes and other proteins coded by DNA genes and made via messenger RNA intermediates and ribosomes . </Li>

The production of new organisms that are similar to existing organisms is a property of life called