Question

The ________ is the basic unit of life. a. organism b. cell c. tissue d. organ

Short answer

b. cell

Step-by-step solution

Review the options

We have four possible choices: a. organism b. cell c. tissue d. organ

Identify the basic unit of life

The basic unit of life and the foundation for all other biological structures is the cell. All living organisms are made up of cells. So, the correct answer is: b. cell

Key concepts

Cell: The Basic Unit of Life

The cell is often referred to as the building block of life because all living organisms are composed of cells. Cells are the most basic units of life and can perform all necessary functions to sustain it.

Each cell includes fundamental structures such as the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and the nucleus in eukaryotic cells, or nucleoid in prokaryotic cells. These structures manage activities like growth, metabolism, and reproduction, showcasing the cell's crucial role.

Being present in all living organisms, cells vary from prokaryotic cells, which lack a nucleus, to more complex eukaryotic cells with membrane-bound organelles.

A deeper understanding of cells reveals how they replicate through processes such as mitosis and meiosis, crucial for growth and reproduction.

• Basic functions: growth, metabolism, and reproduction
• Components like plasma membrane and nucleus
• Types: prokaryotic and eukaryotic

Biological Structures and Their Function

Biological structures are the organized arrangements of molecules that form the parts of a cell, aiding in its diverse functions. They range from small components like organelles to complex systems such as tissues and organs.

Each biological structure has a unique role in maintaining the cell's health and efficiency. Organelles like mitochondria provide energy, while the Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins.

Other structures include:

• Ribosomes: Sites for protein synthesis.
• Cytoskeleton: Maintains cell shape and allows movement.
• Endoplasmic reticulum: Essential for protein and lipid synthesis.

The intricate interaction of these biological structures supports the cell's functionality, making it a dynamic living unit. Understanding these structures gives insight into how cells operate as the building blocks of life.

Living Organisms and Their Cellular Make-Up

Living organisms, whether simple like bacteria or complex like humans, are made of one or more cells. They showcase the diversity of life forms, all relying on cellular functionality.

The cell's role in living organisms cannot be overstated. It is responsible for carrying out the processes that characterize life, such as respiration, digestion, and replication.

Organisms can be classified based on their cellular composition:

• Unicellular Organisms: Made of a single cell, examples include bacteria and some algae.
• Multicellular Organisms: Consist of many cells, such as plants, animals, and fungi.

Each type of organism demonstrates complex interactions within its cells, dictating growth, development, and adaptation. The study of cells in different organisms helps us understand broader biological concepts and the overarching unity across life on Earth.