What term describes the ability of bacteria or organisms to move independently?

The correct term that describes the ability of bacteria or organisms to move independently is motility. Motility refers specifically to the capability of an organism to move on its own, often using specialized structures such as flagella or cilia. This characteristic is significant because it allows organisms to respond to their environment, escape predators, and seek out nutrients.

In contrast, growth refers to an increase in size or number of cells, metabolism encompasses all biochemical processes within an organism including energy production, and reproduction pertains to the ability to produce new individuals of the same species. While all these terms relate to biological functioning, motility specifically highlights the aspect of independent movement, making it distinct from the other concepts. Understanding motility is essential in contexts like infection control, as motile bacteria may have different pathogenic capabilities and can influence infection dynamics.