Question

Which term is used for cells performing similar functions and cells collecting intracellular material?

• A. Division
• B. Organ
• C. Organ system
• D. Tissue

Hint:

Remember the hierarchy of biological organization: Cells \(\rightarrow\) Tissues \(\rightarrow\) Organs \(\rightarrow\) Organ Systems \(\rightarrow\) Organism. Tissues are the first level where cells with similar functions are grouped together.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the levels of biological organization in multicellular organisms.
In biology, multicellular organisms exhibit a hierarchical organization, where simpler units combine to form more complex structures. The key levels are:
Cells: The fundamental structural and functional units of life.
Tissues: Groups of similar cells (and their extracellular matrix) that work together to perform a specific function.
Organs: Structures composed of two or more different types of tissues that cooperate to perform a specialized function.
Organ Systems: Groups of organs that work together to carry out major functions essential for the survival of the organism. Step 2: Analyze the description provided in the question.
The question asks for a term that describes "cells performing similar functions" and "cells collecting intracellular material".
"Cells performing similar functions" is the hallmark definition of a tissue. When cells differentiate and specialize to carry out a particular task, they group together to form tissues.
"Cells collecting intracellular material" further specifies a functional specialization that is characteristic of certain tissue types (e.g., epithelial cells involved in absorption or secretion, or cells storing specific substances). This specialized function is a defining characteristic of a tissue. Step 3: Evaluate each option against the description.
A. Division: This term typically refers to cell division (mitosis or meiosis) or a section/part of something larger. It is not a level of structural organization.
B. Organ: An organ is made of \textit{multiple types of tissues} working together (e.g., the stomach is made of epithelial tissue, muscle tissue, connective tissue, and nervous tissue). The question specifically describes a group of \textit{cells} with similar functions.
C. Organ system: An organ system consists of \textit{multiple organs} working together (e.g., the digestive system includes the stomach, intestines, liver, etc.). This is a much higher level of organization than what is described.
D. Tissue: This term perfectly fits the description. A tissue is defined as a collection of similar cells that together carry out a specific function. Examples include muscle tissue, nervous tissue, connective tissue, and epithelial tissue, many of which involve cells performing specialized functions like collecting or processing materials. Step 4: Conclude the correct term.
The term that describes a group of similar cells performing specific functions, including specialized tasks like collecting intracellular material, is a Tissue.