Question

Why cell called structural and functional unit of body

Answer 1

Answer:

The cells are called as structural and functional units of a living body. Cells are structural unit as they form the structure of the organism. Cells combine to form tissues, which further combine to form organs, organs combine to form organic systems, which further combine to form organism. So, cell is the basic structural unit for all unicellular and multi cellular organisms.

Some of the basic life processes or functions takes place in every cell to keep the organisms alive such as digestion, respiration, excretion, etc., whether it is a single-celled organism or multi cellular organism. So, the cells are also called the functional unit of life owing to these processes.

Explanation:

The fundamental unit of life is not an atom, ion or molecule, although these particles are present in non-living as well as in living bodies. To understand the difference between living and non-living substances a knowledge of the cell is essential.

The ions and molecules are precisely arranged in the cellular structure of an organism to provide the environment and organisation for running the life processes in or­der. The cell, itself, is considered to be the basic structural and functional unit of life as it is the smallest unit of all living organisms capable of carrying out all the activities necessary for life.

The word ‘cell’ is derived from Latin cella to cover i.e., it covers and encompasses the basic unit of life. It can also be said that the cell is a com­plete unit of metabolism because it has all the chemical and physical factors necessary for its growth and maintenance. An isolated cell is also capable of growth and differentiation in a laboratory if the proper nutrients and appropriate environments are given.

Hope this helps

Regards K.B.Dharun Krishna