Basic Cell Functions

Cells have evolved to contain many intricate structures inside of its membrane. Many of these structures serve specific purposes. This interconnected network of structures inside of a cell can be compared to the system of gears inside of a simple machine. Just as the gears have to cooperate among themselves to ensure the machine's proper function, the internal organelles of a cell have to interact to ensure the cell's ultimate survival.

There are several main functions that the cell has to carry out: molecule transport, reproduction, and energy conversion. Please click on the following to learn more about the various functions. Before you continue, we suggest you to learn about the properties of life first.

	Properties of Life What defines something as living? Click here to find out.
	Molecule Transport The cell must be able to obtain nutrients and other molecules to survive. Click here to learn about the process and machineries that are involved.
	Reproduction Simply being able to sustain itself is not enough. Cells must be able to produce new generations to ensure the survival of their specie. Click here to find out the steps involved in cell replication.
	Cellular Metabolism It takes energy to make things happen, even at the cellular level. Click here to learn how cell derives energy from its surrounding.