Final answer:
The basic unit of life is the cell, which is the smallest independently functioning biological unit and the building block of all living organisms. Organisms are structured hierarchically, starting with atoms and molecules that comprise cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic unit of life is the cell. Organisms can be made up of either one single cell, such as bacteria, or of many cells, like humans. The organization of living things begins at the smallest level with the atom, which combines to form molecules, and these can further organize into macromolecules such as DNA, which contains genetic information vital for life. However, it is the cell that is the smallest independently functioning biological unit and is considered the building block of all living organisms.
- Organisms are made up of cells.
- Cells are the building blocks of life.
- The hierarchy of biological organization includes atoms, molecules, and organelles, leading up to cells.