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NCERT · Class 9 · Science

Chapter 5: The Fundamental Unit of Life

Practice each question, then open the answer or worked solution.

Exercise-5.1

Textbook page 59 · 2 questions
Q1Written answer

Who discovered cells, and how?

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Worked solution

In 1665, Robert Hooke discovered cells while examining a thin slice of cork through a self-designed microscope. He observed that the cork resembled the structure of a honeycomb consisting of numerous tiny compartments. The minuscule boxes are referred to as cells.

Q2Written answer

Why is the cell called the structural and functional unit of life?

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Worked solution

Cells form the structure of an entity. A group of cells form a tissue, further an organ and ultimately an organ system. They perform fundamental functions and life processes such as respiration, digestion, excretion etc., in both unicellular and multicellular entities. They perform all the activities independently. Hence, cells are referred to as structural and fundamental units of life.