The Fundamental Unit of Life In this chapter, students will explore the cell, the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. The journey begins with understanding the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, highlighting their unique characteristics and complexities. Students will delve into the detailed structure of a cell, examining its various components and organelles such as the nucleus, which serves as the control center of cellular activities. The chapter also covers essential processes like diffusion and osmosis, explaining how substances move across cell membranes. Furthermore, students will compare and contrast animal and plant cells, identifying the differences and similarities in their structures and functions. By the end of this chapter, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental unit of life, setting the stage for more advanced topics in biology.