Final Answer:
Cessation of life is called e. death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Death, indicated by option e, signifies the ultimate cessation of life. It denotes the irreversible cessation of all vital functions in an organism, including the absence of heartbeat, brain activity, and respiratory function. This state marks the end of an individual's biological existence, where there's no potential for revival or sustenance of life processes.
Death is distinguishable from other options listed:
- Hospice and palliative care (options a and c) focus on improving the quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses but do not imply the cessation of life.
- Minimally conscious state (option b) indicates a state of reduced consciousness but does not signify death.
- Vegetative state (option d) involves a lack of awareness and responsiveness but does not equate to the complete cessation of life processes as seen in death.
Therefore, option E is the right answer.