Protoplasm is a complex, viscous, and translucent substance that constitutes the physical basis of life. It's essentially everything inside the cell membrane, and it can be broadly divided into two main parts:

* Cytoplasm: This is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and surrounds the nucleus. It contains various organelles, such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and the endoplasmic reticulum, which perform specific functions within the cell.

* Nucleoplasm: This is the substance found within the nucleus of the cell, which contains the cell's genetic material (DNA).

Protoplasm is responsible for carrying out all the vital functions of a cell, such as:

* Metabolism: The chemical reactions that occur within the cell to break down nutrients and create energy.

* Growth and development: The processes that allow the cell to increase in size and complexity.

* Reproduction: The ability of the cell to create new cells.

* Responsiveness: The ability of the cell to react to changes in its environment.

It's important to note that protoplasm is not a single, uniform substance. Its composition varies depending on the type of cell and its function. However, all living cells are composed of protoplasm, making it a fundamental component of life.