mortal
Definition
Mortal means that something is subject to death. All living things are mortal, including humans, animals, plants, and even bacteria.
Death is the cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. It is the end of life.
Mortality is a fundamental aspect of life. It is something that all living things must face. However, it is also something that we can learn to accept. We can live our lives to the fullest and make the most of every moment, knowing that our time on Earth is limited.
Mortality is also a concept that has been explored in philosophy and religion for centuries. There are many different views on the meaning of death and what happens after we die. Some people believe in an afterlife, while others believe that death is the end of existence.
The concept of mortality can be a difficult one to grapple with. It can be scary to think about our own death and the death of our loved ones. However, it is also important to remember that mortality is a part of life. It is something that we all must face. And it is something that we can learn to accept.
How can the word be used?
The mortal world is full of pain and suffering.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A human being.
Adjective: Subject to death.
Verb: To cause the death of.
Etymology
The word "mortal" comes from the Latin word "mortalis," which means "subject to death." The Latin word "mortalis" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "mer-," which means "to die.".
The word "mortal" was first used in English in the 13th century. It was originally used to refer to any living being that is subject to death, but it is now most commonly used to refer to human beings.
Question
What does mortal mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of "mortal" in the context of living organisms and discuss the factors that contribute to mortality rates in a population. Provide examples to illustrate how mortality rates can vary among different species and within human populations.
Answer:
In the realm of biology, the term "mortal" refers to the quality of being subject to death. All living organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms, have a finite lifespan and are therefore mortal.
Mortality rates within a population are influenced by a multitude of factors, such as disease prevalence, environmental conditions, predation, competition for resources, and genetic predispositions. For instance, in animal populations, predation by predators or exposure to harsh weather conditions can contribute to higher mortality rates. In plants, factors like availability of water, sunlight, and nutrients can affect mortality.
Human mortality rates vary due to a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, and genetics. In developed countries with advanced medical care, mortality rates are typically lower due to better disease management and healthcare infrastructure. In contrast, in less developed regions, lack of access to clean water, proper nutrition, and healthcare services can result in higher mortality rates.
For example, small mammals like mice have short lifespans due to their rapid reproductive strategies and exposure to predators. Elephants, on the other hand, have longer lifespans due to their larger size and fewer natural predators. In human populations, differences in mortality rates can be seen between countries with differing levels of healthcare access and standards of living.
In conclusion, the term "mortal" pertains to the inevitability of death in all living organisms. Mortality rates vary across species and within human populations due to a variety of factors, from environmental conditions to healthcare availability. Understanding these factors is crucial for analysing population dynamics and making informed decisions about healthcare and conservation efforts.