Final answer:
Cells are made up of complex organic molecules such as proteins and carbohydrates. These molecules provide essential functions for the survival and functioning of cells. While molecules themselves are not alive, they play a crucial role in the overall functioning of cells and organisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cells are made up of many complex organic molecules, such as proteins and carbohydrates, which are especially important for life. The fundamental component of all of these macromolecules is carbon. Carbon atoms can form covalent bonds with up to four different atoms, making them ideal to form the "backbone" of macromolecules.
These molecules are not considered alive themselves, but they are essential for the functioning and survival of cells. Molecules serve various roles within cells, such as providing structural support, carrying out chemical reactions, and transmitting information. For example, proteins function as enzymes that catalyze biochemical reactions, carbohydrates provide energy for cells, and nucleic acids like DNA store and transmit genetic information.
While molecules are not alive in the same way that cells are, they are crucial building blocks of life and play a vital role in the overall functioning of cells and organisms.