How do scientists determine whether or not a new discovery is actually a living thing?

Scientists determine whether a new discovery is a living thing by assessing its characteristics such as metabolism, growth, response to stimuli, reproduction, and genetic material. They may also use microscopy, molecular analysis, and biochemical tests to confirm the presence of cellular structures or biomolecules typically found in living organisms. Additionally, conducting experiments to observe behavior and interactions with the environment can help confirm if the new discovery exhibits traits associated with life.