Why is a cell called the basic structural and functional unit of a living organism?
Why is a cell called the basic structural and functional unit of a living organism?
The cell is called the structural and functional unit of life as all living organisms are made up of cells. Cells are also essential for performing various life processes required for sustaining life. Furthermore, cells provide form and structure, process nutrients and convert them into useable energy. Multicellular organisms have specialized cells that perform specific functions. For instance, the blood contains RBC and this cell is primarily tasked with transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. Another example of a specialised cell is the photoreceptor cell found in the eye. This type of cell is tasked with converting light into signals capable of influencing biological processes.
The cell is called the structural and functional unit of life as all living organisms are made up of cells. Cells are also essential for performing various life processes required for sustaining life. Furthermore, cells provide form and structure, process nutrients and convert them into useable energy. Multicellular organisms have specialized cells that perform specific functions. For instance, the blood contains RBC and this cell is primarily tasked with transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. Another example of a specialised cell is the photoreceptor cell found in the eye. This type of cell is tasked with converting light into signals capable of influencing biological processes.
