Living cells exist because they do not obey the second law of thermodynamics. are closed systems. use anabolic pathways to drive catabolic pathways. are in a dynamic steady state far from equilibrium.

Answer: are in a dynamic steady state far from equilibrium.

Explanation:

The molecules and ions contained within living organisms differ in type and concentration from those in the environment. Living organisms are not in equilibrium with the environment. Only death and decomposition restore equilibrium. A dynamic steady state occurs when the speed of appearance of a cellular component is counterbalanced exactly by the speed of its disappearance.