Why is chicken pox virus not considered a living thing?

Chickenpox virus is indeed considered a living thing. It is a type of virus, which are classified as non-cellular infectious agents. While viruses do not fit the traditional definition of living organisms as they do not have a cellular structure, they exhibit characteristics that distinguish them from non-living entities. Here are a few reasons why chickenpox virus and other viruses are considered living things:

Reproduction: Viruses have the ability to reproduce. They can hijack the cellular machinery of host cells to make copies of themselves. This replication process results in the production of new viral particles that can infect other cells.

Metabolism: Although viruses lack the typical metabolic processes of cells, they still engage in metabolic activities necessary for their replication. They utilize host cell resources and enzymes to synthesize new viral components.

Response to Stimuli: Viruses respond to certain stimuli, such as changes in their environment or the presence of host immune responses. They may alter their genetic material or modify their behavior in response to these stimuli, which contributes to their ability to adapt and survive.

Evolution: Viruses exhibit evolutionary processes, including natural selection and genetic variation. Over time, they can accumulate beneficial mutations that enhance their infectivity, resistance to antiviral drugs, or ability to exploit new hosts.

Interaction with the Environment: Viruses interact with their surroundings, including host organisms, inanimate objects, and other microorganisms. They can transmit from one host to another, spread through the environment, and persist in various reservoirs, such as animals or environmental surfaces.

Although viruses lack some features commonly associated with living organisms, such as cellular structure or independent metabolism, they possess characteristics that demonstrate their living nature. Their ability to replicate, respond to stimuli, evolve, and interact with the environment underscores their classification as living entities within the realm of biology.