viability

Viability refers to the ability of something to live, develop, or succeed in a given environment. The term is used across sciences and applied fields to indicate practical potential rather than mere existence. In biology, viability commonly denotes the capacity of an organism, cell, or tissue to live and function under favorable conditions. It is assessed with tests that distinguish living material from dead material, such as cell viability assays or seed germination tests.

In seed science, viability measures the potential of a seed to germinate and produce a viable plant. Seed viability is estimated by germination tests or chemical assays, including the tetrazolium test, which indicates living embryo tissue.

In ecology, population viability analysis evaluates extinction risk and long-term persistence of a species under demographic and environmental uncertainty. These analyses inform conservation and management decisions by projecting outcomes under different scenarios.

In medicine and obstetrics, fetal viability describes the threshold at which a fetus can survive outside the womb with medical care. Thresholds vary by technology and care standards but are commonly defined in terms of gestational age and available neonatal support.

In business and technology, viability assesses whether a project, product, or business model can be successful and sustainable. Assessments consider technical feasibility, market demand, cost, risk, and potential return.

Across contexts, viability emphasizes practical possibility and resilience in real-world conditions rather than theoretical possibility.