Question

‘Cells are basic structural units of living organisms’. Explain.

Answer 1

Hint: The cell is a tiny structural unit of living beings that is able to function singly. A single cell can be a fully mature organism in itself like in bacteria and protozoans.

Complete Answer:
- Cells compose various components of plants and animals. A cell is the tiniest unit of life and is able to do all living functions.
- Cells are the main structural component of life. And because of this cells are called ‘the basic structural and functional components of life’. All cells are different in their sizes, shapes and functions they perform. In fact, the size and shape of the cell is related to the particular function it carries out.
- A unicellular organism also represents and digests food, respires, excretes, grows, and reproduces.
- Same functions in multicellular organisms are carried out by groups of specific cells which are organized into tissues and organs like in the higher plants and animals. Thus, the cell is called the basic structural and functional unit of life.

Note: Cells are taken into consideration as the basic constituent of life because they come in discrete and easily distinguishable packages. Cells are enclosed by a structure known as the cell membrane that is much similar to the walls of a building functions as an outline between the cell's internal and external structure. This cell membrane is also called the plasma membrane.