Basic biological unit Crossword Clue

Today is 31 March 2020 and we are bringing to you a great solution from The Guardian Quick crossword.
Please find the best answer for the clue "Basic biological unit" below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

The clue for today's crossword puzzle is "Basic biological unit" and the answer is "CELL". Here is an explanation of why this clue has this answer:

1. Cell as a basic unit: In the field of biology, a cell is considered the fundamental or basic unit of life. Cells are the building blocks of all living organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms. Whether we look at the body of a human, a leaf, or a single-celled organism, they are all composed of cells. Therefore, the term "basic biological unit" perfectly fits the answer "CELL".
2. Characteristics of cells: Cells possess certain common characteristics that make them the fundamental units of life. They have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, and genetic material (DNA or RNA). These characteristics enable cells to carry out essential functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and responding to stimuli. It is these characteristics that define and distinguish cells from non-living matter, emphasizing the significance of their role as basic biological units.
3. Cell diversity: While cells share common features, they also display diversity in terms of size, structure, and function. Different types of cells exist within organisms, each specialized for a specific role in maintaining the overall functioning of the organism. Examples include nerve cells, muscle cells, blood cells, and plant cells. The various types of cells interact and work together to ensure the survival and proper functioning of living beings.
4. Scientific consensus: The concept of cells as the basic unit of life has been widely accepted in the scientific community and has been a fundamental principle of biology for centuries. Cell theory, formulated by scientists Schleiden, Schwann, and Virchow in the 19th century, states that all living organisms are composed of cells, and new cells arise from pre-existing cells. This theory forms the basis of our understanding of life and its processes on a microscopic level.

In conclusion, the clue "Basic biological unit" accurately leads us to the answer "CELL" because cells are the fundamental units of life, displaying common characteristics, diverse functions, and being widely recognized in the field of biology.

Definition of "CELL"

a small room in which a prisoner is locked up or in which a monk or nun sleeps

Example :

the authorities locked all remaining inmates in their cells

terrorist cells

a button cell for a quartz watch

 The Crossword clue "Basic biological unit" published 1 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
The Guardian Quick	31 March 2020	CELL