Question

The smallest indepen dently functioning unit of an organism is a(n) ______. a. cell b. molecule c. organ d. tissue

Short answer

Answer: The smallest independently functioning unit of an organism is the cell.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the smallest independently functioning unit of an organism

To solve this exercise, recall the smallest structural unit in living organisms that can function independently. Go through each option and decide which one is the correct answer.

Analyze each option and provide an explanation

a. Cell: Cells are considered the basic structural units of life. They are the smallest units capable of carrying out all the life processes necessary for an organism to survive. This makes the cell the smallest independently functioning unit of an organism. b. Molecule: Molecules are groups of atoms bonded together. Although they are fundamental building blocks of living organisms, they cannot function independently to perform all of the necessary life processes. c. Organ: Organs are groups of tissues that work together to perform a specific function. They are not the smallest unit capable of independent functioning, as they consist of smaller units like tissues and cells. d. Tissue: Tissues are groups of cells working together to perform a specific function. While tissues are essential for an organism's functioning, they are not the smallest unit capable of independent functioning, as they are composed of cells.

Provide the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each option, the correct answer is: a. Cell The cell is the smallest independently functioning unit of an organism, as it can carry out all the life processes necessary for an organism to survive.