1. Plasma Membrane: This is the outer boundary of the cell, acting as a selectively permeable barrier that controls what enters and exits the cell.
2. Cytoplasm: This is the gel-like substance that fills the cell, containing various organelles and the cytosol (the fluid portion).
3. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid): This is the genetic material of the cell, containing the instructions for building and maintaining the organism.
4. Ribosomes: These are small, complex structures responsible for protein synthesis, following instructions from the DNA.
These four components are fundamental for the cell's structure, function, and survival.