Question

Growth in living organism (a) Is from outside (b) Is from inside (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) Does not take place

Short answer

(b) Is from inside

Step-by-step solution

Understanding The Concept Of Growth In Biological Systems

In the field of biology, growth refers to an increase in size. In living organisms, this process is generally from the inside because it involves the multiplication of cells which occurs internally.

Evaluating The Provided Options

With the addition of new cells from inside the organism, we can eliminate options (a) 'Is from the outside', and (d) 'Does not take place', leaving us with (b) 'Is from inside' and (c) 'Both (a) and (b)'.

Determining The Correct Answer

Growth of a living organism predominantly happens from the inside, as cells multiply and increase in mass internally. Therefore, the answer (c) 'Both (a) and (b)' can also be eliminated.

Key concepts

Cell Multiplication

Cell multiplication is a fundamental process for growth in living organisms. This is the method through which new cells are produced from existing ones, allowing an organism to grow in size, replace damaged cells, and sustain life processes. Cell multiplication occurs through a process known as "mitosis." During mitosis, a single cell divides to form two identical daughter cells.

This not only increases the total number of cells within an organism, but also maintains genetic consistency, as each new cell carries the same DNA as the original. Cell multiplication is therefore crucial for growth because it results in an internal increase of cells, contributing to the organism's overall size and complexity.

• Helps in growth and development
• Essential for tissue repair
• Maintains genetic information consistency

Internal Growth

Internal growth refers to the increase in size and mass within an organism due to processes happening inside it. Unlike non-living objects that might grow if parts are added externally, living organisms grow as a result of internal changes.

The primary facilitator of internal growth is cell multiplication, where cells proliferate within tissues. As new cells are added internally, the organism experiences an increase in size and capability to perform biological functions. This type of growth ensures that the entirety of the organism increases in a coordinated and organic manner.

• Results from cell division and addition
• Ensures organic and harmonious size increase
• Facilitates functional development

Biological Systems

Biological systems encompass the complex networks and processes that sustain life. These systems are made up of individual cells, tissues, and organs, all working together to ensure the organism functions properly. Growth within biological systems is integral to their maintenance and efficiency.

The primary biological systems include the circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems. Each requires growth to maintain its functions – for instance, a growing organism needs more resources transported through its circulatory system. In ensuring these systems grow in tandem with the organism, they support the organism's survival, adaptability, and reproduction.

• Composed of cells, tissues, and organs
• Support organism's life and growth
• Adaptable to an organism's changing needs

Size Increase in Biology

Size increase in biology describes the way organisms grow larger as a result of cell multiplication and internal growth. It is different from the assembly of non-living things, as it involves adding mass and size from within.

As living organisms grow, they not only increase in physical size but also in complexity and function. This size increase is guided by genetic instruction and influenced by environmental factors such as nutrition and available resources. Understanding size increase helps in studying and explaining how organisms develop and thrive.

• Driven by internal cell processes
• Affected by genetic and environmental factors
• Enables organisms to diversify and adapt