Which term refers to the capacity to notice changes in the environment?

Sensitivity is the term that refers to the capacity to notice changes in the environment. In biological terms, sensitivity pertains to the ability of an organism to detect stimuli or changes in their surroundings, which is crucial for survival. This reaction can manifest in various ways, such as movement towards food sources or away from dangers, and is a fundamental characteristic of living organisms.

In contrast, adaptation refers to the long-term changes in an organism that enhance its chances of survival in a particular environment, whereas sensitivity is about immediate reactions to environmental changes. Nutrition involves the processes of obtaining and using food for energy and growth, and respiration is related to the biochemical processes that provide energy by breaking down nutrients. Understanding these distinctions helps to clarify why sensitivity is the appropriate term for recognizing environmental changes.