Here's why:
* Cells are the fundamental unit of life. All living organisms are made up of one or more cells.
* Cells possess all the characteristics of life. This includes:
* Organization: Cells are highly organized structures with specific components (e.g., nucleus, cytoplasm, organelles).
* Metabolism: Cells carry out chemical reactions to obtain and use energy.
* Growth and development: Cells increase in size and complexity.
* Reproduction: Cells replicate themselves.
* Response to stimuli: Cells react to changes in their environment.
* Homeostasis: Cells maintain a stable internal environment.
* Adaptation: Cells can evolve over time to better suit their environment.
While smaller components like molecules and atoms are essential for life, they lack the complete set of characteristics that define living things.
