Final answer:
Reproduction is the biological process through which a new organism is produced. It is a fundamental characteristic of life, essential for species survival, and can occur asexually or sexually, depending on the organism. The correct option is B).
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of producing a new organism is referred to as reproduction. Reproduction is one of the defining characteristics of living things and involves the creation of offspring.
This can occur through different methods, such as asexual reproduction, where a single organism can produce offspring without the involvement of another organism, and sexual reproduction, which involves the combination of genetic material from two parents.
In multicellular organisms, reproduction is more complex and involves the coordinated production of multiple cell types.
Development in organisms includes the process of differentiation, in which unspecialized cells become specialized to perform specific functions. Additionally, development encompasses growth and repair, both of which involve cell differentiation.
For example, during growth, organisms increase in size by generating new cells that are required for the structure and function of the body. For repair, new cells replace worn-out or damaged cells, maintaining the health and functionality of an organism.
Without reproduction, the continuity of species would not be possible, as death is an inevitable part of the life cycle of complex organisms. Therefore, reproduction is essential for the survival of a species. Option B) is the correct one.