What is the basic unit of life?

The basic unit of life is the cell. Cells are the smallest structural and functional units of living organisms, capable of performing all necessary life processes. They can exist as independent organisms, such as bacteria, or as the fundamental building blocks of more complex organisms, including plants and animals. Each cell is bounded by a membrane and contains various organelles that carry out specific functions, such as energy production, protein synthesis, and waste elimination.

In multicellular organisms, cells can specialize to perform particular functions, working together to form tissues, organs, and systems. This organization underscores the significance of the cell as the foundational element of life. Understanding the cell's role and function is crucial for studying more complex biological systems and how they operate collectively to sustain life.