BIOLOGY:CONCEPTS+APPL.(LOOSELEAF)
BIOLOGY:CONCEPTS+APPL.(LOOSELEAF)
10th Edition
ISBN: 9781305967359
Author: STARR
Publisher: CENGAGE L
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Chapter 1, Problem 1SA
Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The simplest level of organization is the chemical level of organization. This level of organization includes the building blocks called atoms through which life is possible on the earth. Different biologists and researchers gave the level of organization which is followed by every substance.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Answer to Problem 1SA

Correct answer:

Atoms are considered to be the smallest unit of all substances. Hence, the correct answer is option a.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct answer:

Option a. is given as “Atoms.”

The basic level of organization includes “atoms, molecules, cells, tissues, organs, organ system, organisms, population, community, ecosystem, and biosphere.” Therefore, the basic and smallest unit that forms all substances is an atom. The interaction of atoms results in the formation of molecules. Molecules interact to form cells. The cell is the basic “fundamental unit” of every living organism. The cellular interaction forms tissues and tissues link together to form organs. This formation cycle continues to grow and ultimately forms biosphere. The biosphere is the largest level of organization, and it contains all the substances (both living and non-living) that are present in the environment.

Reason for incorrect answer:

Option b. is given as, “Molecules.”

Molecules are one of the smaller units that form substances. However, they are not the smallest ones. Molecules are formed by the interaction of atoms with the help of chemical bond. This indicates that molecules are not the smallest units of substances as they are composed of atoms. Hence, option b. is incorrect.

Option c. is given as, “Cells”.

Cells are the basic “fundamental unit” of life. They are the smallest unit for the formation of organisms but not substances. Cells are formed by molecules and molecules are composed of atoms. This indicates that cell is not the smallest unit of substance. Hence, option c. is incorrect.

Option d. is given as, “Organisms”.

Organisms are larger units. They contain cells, tissues, organ, and organ system. The basic unit that forms an organism is a cell. However, an atom is a smaller unit than cell. This indicates that organisms are not the smallest unit of substances. Hence, option c. is incorrect.

Hence, the options b., c., and d. are incorrect.

Conclusion

Atoms are the smallest units of substances. Every substance present in the environment is formed from atoms. Thus, the correct answer is option a.

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