* Metabolism: Cells carry out all the essential processes of life, such as taking in nutrients, converting energy, and producing waste.
* Growth: Cells increase in size and complexity.
* Reproduction: Cells replicate themselves, creating new cells.
* Response to stimuli: Cells can react to changes in their environment, like temperature or the presence of chemicals.
* Organization: Cells are highly organized structures with internal components that work together.
Examples of single-celled organisms:
* Bacteria: These are prokaryotic cells, meaning they lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
* Protozoa: These are eukaryotic cells, meaning they have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
* Yeast: These are also eukaryotic cells, and are often used in brewing and baking.
Important Note: While a single cell can be a complete living organism, it's worth noting that multicellular organisms are also living, but they are composed of many cells working together in a coordinated way.
