•Size: Cells are the basic unit of life, and they are typically very small. Most cells are too small to be seen with the naked eye, and they range in size from about 1 to 100 micrometers. Micro-organisms, on the other hand, are much larger than cells. Most micro-organisms are visible to the naked eye, and they range in size from about 100 micrometers to several centimeters.
•Structure: Cells have a complex structure, and they are composed of many different types of molecules. Cells have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, and DNA. Micro-organisms also have a complex structure, but they are not as complex as cells. Micro-organisms do not have a cell membrane, but they do have a cell wall and DNA.
•Metabolism: Cells carry out a variety of metabolic processes, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction. Micro-organisms also carry out a variety of metabolic processes, but they are not as complex as the metabolic processes carried out by cells. Micro-organisms can carry out fermentation, anaerobic respiration, and aerobic respiration.
•Reproduction: Cells reproduce by splitting in two. This process is called cell division. Micro-organisms reproduce by a variety of methods, such as binary fission, budding, and spore formation.
•Habitat: Cells are found in all environments on Earth. Micro-organisms are also found in all environments on Earth, but they are most common in moist environments.
•Role in the environment: Cells are essential for life on Earth. They carry out a variety of metabolic processes that are necessary for life, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction. Micro-organisms also play an important role in the environment. They help to decompose organic matter, recycle nutrients, and produce antibiotics.
