The Building Blocks of Life

All living things are made up of cells, the basic unit of life. Cells come in two main types: prokaryotic (like bacteria, which lack a nucleus) and eukaryotic (like plant and animal cells, which have a nucleus).

Key Cell Components

• Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).
• Mitochondria: Produces energy (the powerhouse!).
• Ribosomes: Synthesize proteins.
• Cell Membrane: Controls what enters and exits the cell.
• Chloroplasts: Found in plant cells, capture sunlight for photosynthesis.

Cellular Processes

Cells carry out vital processes, such as:

• Respiration: Turning glucose and oxygen into energy.
• Photosynthesis: Plants use sunlight to make food.
• Mitosis: Cell division for growth and repair.

Why Cells Matter

Every organism, from a single-celled amoeba to you, starts with cells. Understanding them helps us grasp how life functions at the smallest level.