The basic unit of life

The basic unit of life

• A. Organ System
• B. Cells
• C. Tissues
• D. Organism

Answer: (B)

Cells are the basic unit of life. This means they’re the smallest units capable of carrying out all the processes that keep a living thing alive—things like metabolism, growth, and reproduction. The idea, captured in cell theory, is that all living organisms are made of cells, and new cells arise from existing ones, with genetic material directing cellular functions. In multicellular organisms, cells come together to form tissues, tissues form organs, and organs make up organ systems, but none of those higher levels can operate if the individual cell isn’t there. That’s why cells are the correct choice.

Cells are the basic unit of life. This means they’re the smallest units capable of carrying out all the processes that keep a living thing alive—things like metabolism, growth, and reproduction. The idea, captured in cell theory, is that all living organisms are made of cells, and new cells arise from existing ones, with genetic material directing cellular functions. In multicellular organisms, cells come together to form tissues, tissues form organs, and organs make up organ systems, but none of those higher levels can operate if the individual cell isn’t there. That’s why cells are the correct choice.