Cells

Cells

Cells (/sɛlz/; from Latin cella, meaning "small room") are the basic building blocks of all living things. The human body is composed of trillions of cells. They provide structure for the body, take in nutrients from food, convert those nutrients into energy, and carry out specialized functions.

Etymology

The term "cell" comes from the Latin cella, meaning a small room. It was first used in this biological context by English microscopist Robert Hooke in 1665, when he compared the cork cells he viewed under his microscope to the small rooms monks lived in.

Types of Cells

There are two types of cells: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic. Prokaryotic cells are usually independent, while Eukaryotic cells are often found in multicellular organisms.

Prokaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic cells are the simplest form of living cells and are believed to be the first type of cells to evolve. They are characterized by the absence of a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic Cells

Eukaryotic cells are more complex and include all animal and plant cells. They are characterized by the presence of a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

Cell Structure

Cells have several structures within them, each with a specific function. These include the cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, and mitochondria.

Cell Functions

Cells perform a wide range of functions, from energy production to structural support. They also play a crucial role in cell division, which is essential for growth and reproduction.

Related Terms

• Cell biology
• Cell division
• Cell membrane
• Cytoplasm
• Nucleus (cell)
• Mitochondrion
• Prokaryotic cell
• Eukaryotic cell

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Cells
• Wikipedia's article - Cells

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