Which of the following characteristics is NOT typically associated with living organisms?

Photosynthesis is a process carried out by certain organisms, primarily plants, algae, and some bacteria, to convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. However, it is not a characteristic universally associated with all living organisms. Many living organisms, such as animals and fungi, do not perform photosynthesis.

In contrast, growth and development, reproduction, and response to stimuli are fundamental characteristics that apply to all living organisms. Growth and development refer to the processes by which organisms increase in size and complexity over time. Reproduction is the biological process by which new individual organisms are created, ensuring the continuation of a species. Response to stimuli refers to how organisms react to changes in their environment, which is crucial for survival and adaptation.

Therefore, while photosynthesis is an important biological process for specific groups of organisms, it is not a characteristic that defines all living things, making it the correct answer to the question.