What encompasses the term 'life cycle' in biology?

The term 'life cycle' in biology refers to the series of changes and developmental stages that an organism undergoes from its beginning, such as zygote formation, through its various growth phases, to its eventual reproduction and death. This concept includes all the specific transformations an organism experiences over time, such as embryonic development, growth, maturation, and senescence.

This answer emphasizes the holistic view of an organism's life, demonstrating how life is not simply a singular point or phase, but an interconnected series of stages that reflect biological and ecological changes within that organism. Other choices focus on more specific processes or concepts that do not capture the comprehensive nature of a life cycle. Photosynthesis, energy flow in ecosystems, and cell division are all important biological processes, but they do not fully encapsulate the broader set of developmental changes that characterize the life cycle of an organism.