Which of the following is identified as the basic unit of life?

The basic unit of life is the cell. Cells are the smallest structural and functional units of an organism, serving as the building blocks for all living things. Each cell is capable of performing vital biological processes, including metabolism, energy production, and the ability to reproduce.

Cells can exist as independent organisms, as in the case of unicellular organisms like bacteria, or they can aggregate to form multicellular organisms where cells perform specialized functions within tissues, organs, and systems. This hierarchical organization starts from cells making up tissues, which in turn compose organs, and then systems, illustrating how cells are fundamental to life.

Understanding that cells are the basic unit of life is crucial in fields like biology and medicine, as it forms the foundation for studying complex life forms and their physiological functions.