Cells

While atoms are the basic unit of the universe, cells are the basic unit of life. All living things are made up of cells. Cells are the smallest structures that are “alive.” Taken individually, each cell can consume food, expel waste, and reproduce. Despite their individuality, cells display a remarkable ability to join, communicate, and coordinate with other each other. Our body is made up of billions of cells. On the other hand, organisms such as bacteria and fungi are made of a single cell. Cells come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Some of them resemble rods, some resemble cubes, some are round, some are flat, some look like an octopus, and some others keep changing their shape!

What are cells made of? The basic components of cells are molecules, which are in turn formed by a combination of atoms. Remember? In a cell, different molecules combine together to form proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. These are the substances that are essential to sustain life.