1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Q. 64.2( 33 Votes )

Cell is the basic unit of life. Discuss in brief.

Class 11th NCERT - Biology 8. Cell: The Unit of Life

Answer :

All living organisms are composed of small, tiny structures or compartments called cells. These cells are called the ‘building blocks’ of life.The cells in a true sense are considered as the basic unit of life because all the life processes, i.e., metabolism, responsiveness and reproduction are carried out by the cells. Cells are the seat of all metabolic processes. Respiration, nutrition and release of energy are carried out within the cells. Even the animals and plants reproduce because the cells reproduce individually. Growth occurs because cells grow and multiply.Let us take the example of amoeba, a unicellular organism. In amoeba, all the life processes are performed within the boundaries of the single cell. On the other hand, the body of a multi cellular organism is made up of many cells. In these organisms, the cells do not behave independently, but get organized into tissues. Each tissue is specialized to perform specific functions. Different tissues then get organized into organs, which perform certain specific functions. Different organs are finally organized to form organ systems. These tissues, organs and organ systems of the organisms work because the cells work.On account of the above discussion, it can be said that cells are the structural and functional unit of living beings. Hence it is the basic unit of life.

Rate this question :

How useful is this solution?

We strive to provide quality solutions. Please rate us to serve you better.

PREVIOUSMulti cellular organisms have division of labour. Explain.NEXTWhat are nuclear pores? State their function.

Related Videos

Endomembrane system58 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0361 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0155 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0268 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0452 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 1148 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0663 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0963 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 0854 mins

Cell - The unit of Life - 1261 mins

Try our Mini CourseMaster Important Topics in 7 DaysLearn from IITians, NITians, Doctors & Academic Experts

Dedicated counsellor for each student

24X7 Doubt Resolution

Daily Report Card

Detailed Performance Evaluation

view all courses

RELATED QUESTIONS :

Calcium plays a very important role in the formation of bones. Write on the role of endocrine glands and hormones responsible for maintaining Calcium homeostasis.

Biology - Exemplar

The arrangement of ovules within the ovary is known as placentation. What does the term placenta refer to? Name the different types of placentation seen in plants. Draw any three types of placentation in flowers as seen in T.S.

Biology - Exemplar

Some varieties of wheat are known as spring wheat while others are called winter wheat. Former variety is sown, and planted in spring and is harvested by the end of the same season. However, winter varieties, if planted in spring, fail to flower or produce mature grains within a span of a flowering season. Explain, why?

Biology - Exemplar

Comment upon the gametic exchange in earthworm during mating.

Biology - Exemplar

Sunflower is not a flower. Explain.

Biology - Exemplar

Trace the events starting from the coming in contact of Rhizobium to a leguminous root till nodule formation. Add a note on importance of leg hemoglobin.

Biology - Exemplar

Name the two important enzymes of C4 pathway, and explain their role in fixing CO₂?

Biology - Exemplar

Discuss mechanisms of absorption.

Biology - Exemplar

Oxygen is critical for aerobic respiration. Explain its role with respect to ETS.

Biology - Exemplar

Lichen is usually cited as an example of ‘symbiosis’ in plants where an algal and a fungal species live together for their mutual benefit. Which of the following will happen if algal and fungal partners are separated from each other?

a. Both will survive and grow normally and independent from each other.

b. Both will die

c. Algal component will survive while the fungal component will die.

d. Fungal component will survive while algal partner will die. Based on your answer how do you justify this association as symbiosis.

Biology - Exemplar