There are quite a few distinctive characteristics that determine living things:Growth - Living things grow in size. Growth is determined by the different internal processes taking place. Growth is different in the case of plants and animals. Animals follow a certain growth pattern and plants continue to grow throughout their lifespan.Reproduction - Reproduction is a process by which living organisms continue their species. Reproduction can be divided into two types- asexual and sexual.Metabolism - The chemical reaction that occurs in living beings is called Metabolism. It takes place under two categories:Anabolism - The synthesis Catabolism - the breakdown. Non-living beings don’t have metabolism. Response to External Factors - Living organisms have a way of responding to heat, light and other factors. This feature ensures their survival.