Question

Define the term ‘Cell’.

Hint:

All living organisms are made up of cells. Tip: Think “Cell = Life’s building block.”

Answer 1

A cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of a living organism. It is often called the basic unit of life, as all living organisms are made up of one or more cells. Cells are responsible for carrying out all vital life processes such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction. They vary in size, shape, and function and can be classified into two main types:

Prokaryotic cells: These do not have a defined nucleus (e.g., bacteria).
Eukaryotic cells: These have a well-defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plant and animal cells).
The cell was first discovered by Robert Hooke in 1665 when he observed the structure of cork under a microscope.