The ability to grow in size is characteristic of living organisms. Although an icicle may

grow in size over time, it is considered nonliving because there is

(1) an increase in matter, but no increase in the number of Icicles

(2) an interaction between the icicle and the environment

(3) no way for the Icicle to move away from heat

(4) no metabolic activity present

The correct option is number 4. No metabolic activity present

Explanation:

The main characteristic that determines the difference between a living and a non-living component is the metabolic activities that take place in the living organisms.

All living organisms, whether unicellular or multicellular, large or small, carry out a certain set of metabolic activities which are necessary for the organism to stay alive.

As the icicle is not undergoing any metabolic activity it is non-living. Growth in size is a characteristic of life but it is not the basis on which a living and non-living thing can be differentiated.