what is cell?

A cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life that is capable of performing all the processes necessary for life. Cells are typically surrounded by a cell membrane and contain genetic material, which is usually in the form of DNA. They also contain various organelles that perform specific functions within the cell, such as mitochondria for energy production and ribosomes for protein synthesis. There are two main types of cells: prokaryotic cells, which are simpler and lack a nucleus, and eukaryotic cells, which are more complex and have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Cells are essential for life as they carry out vital functions such as metabolism, reproduction, and response to stimuli.