Question

Why is the cell called the structural and functional unit of the organism?

Answer 1

Hint: Cells specialized in one role are frequently clustered together in the body. This implies that a certain function is done by a cluster of cells at a specific location in the body.

Complete Answer:
- Each living cell has the ability, characteristic of all living forms, to perform certain important duties. In multicellular organisms such as humans, we know that labour is divided. This means that various parts of the human body perform various functions.
- The person's heart pumps blood, stomachs to eat food, etc. Similarly, work is split between one cell and another. Each of these cells actually has certain unique components known as cell organelles. Every type of cell organelle has a special function, such as the creation of new materials in the cell and the removal of waste from the cell.
- Thanks to these organelles a cell will survive and fulfill all its functions. Together they form the basic unit known as the cell. It is important to note that all cells have the same organelles, regardless of their role or species.
- In unicellular organisms, all essential tasks are done by a single cell. For example, in amoeba a single cell carries out breathing, ingestion of food and respiratory gases, respiration and excretion. While, there are millions of cells in multicellular organisms. Most of these cells are specially built to execute a few activities.
- Cells specialized in one role are frequently clustered together in the body. This implies that a certain function is done by a cluster of cells at a specific location in the body. This cluster of cells, called tissues, is organized and designed to have the highest possible quality of work. Blood, phloem, and muscle are also forms of tissue.
- The tissue is created by a group of cells that are identical in shape and operate together to perform a specific task. All living beings are made up of cells and every cell can do their work. Therefore, we can say that the cell is the structural and functional unit of life.

Note: Every type of cell organelle has a special function, such as the creation of new materials in the cell and the removal of waste from the cell. Thanks to these organelles a cell will survive and fulfill all its functions.