cell
Definition
A cell is the basic unit of life. All living things are made up of cells, from the smallest bacteria to the largest whales. Cells come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all have the same basic structure.
The basic structure of a cell includes:
- The cell membrane: The cell membrane is a thin layer that surrounds the cell and protects it from the outside environment.
- The cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance inside the cell. It contains all of the cell's organelles, which are the structures that carry out the cell's functions.
- The nucleus: The nucleus is the control centre of the cell. It contains the cell's DNA, which is the genetic material that determines the cell's characteristics.
- Cells are able to reproduce themselves, which is how new cells are formed. They can also divide into specialized cells, which are cells that have different functions. For example, muscle cells are specialized for movement, while nerve cells are specialized for sending messages.
- Cells are essential for life. They are the building blocks of all living things, and they carry out the essential functions that keep us alive.
How can the word be used?
The plant cell is different from the animal cell.
Different forms of the word
Noun: cell (plural: cells).
Adjective: cellular.
Verb: to cell (obsolete).
Adverb: cellularly.
Etymology
The first etymology comes from the Latin word "cella", which means "small room". The Latin word "cella" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kel-, which means "to cover".
The second etymology comes from the Latin word "cellula", which means "small cavity". The Latin word "cellula" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kel-, which means "to cover".
Question
Where can cells be found?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
What is the smallest unit of life?
Answer:
The smallest unit of life is the cell. Cells are the basic building blocks of all living things, from bacteria to plants to animals. Cells come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have the same basic structure.
The basic structure of a cell includes:
The cell membrane: The cell membrane is a thin layer that surrounds the cell and protects it from its surroundings.
The cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance that fills the cell.
The nucleus: The nucleus is the control centre of the cell. It contains the DNA, which is the genetic material of the cell.
Cells are able to carry out all of the functions necessary for life, such as obtaining energy, growing, and reproducing. They are also able to respond to their environment and adapt to change.