Which component is considered the basic unit of all living things?

The cell is recognized as the basic unit of all living things because it is the smallest structure capable of performing all necessary life functions. Cells are the fundamental building blocks from which tissues, organs, and ultimately systems are formed. Each cell has the ability to carry out essential processes such as metabolism, energy production, and reproduction, making it crucial for the existence of both unicellular organisms, like bacteria, and multicellular organisms, including humans and plants.

In biological systems, tissues are groups of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function, while organs are made up of different types of tissues functioning together. A system is composed of multiple organs working collaboratively. While organs, tissues, and systems are increasingly complex structures derived from cells, they cannot exist without the foundational role that cells play in living organisms.