Question

Describe the hierarchy of life including the molecular organic and inorganic molecules as well as defining the functions of each level.

Answer 1

Hierarchy of life describes life at the following levels, atom, molecule, macromolecules , organelle , cell, tissue, organ , organ systems, organisms, population, community, ecosystem, biome and finally biosphere. The biological levels of organization of living things follow a hierarchy, from a single organelle to the entire biosphere, living organisms are part of a structured hierarchy.

The four most abundant elements in living matter have low atomic numbers and are thus light elements capable of forming strong bonds with other atoms to produce molecules. These traits in combination permit the formation of a vast number of diverse molecular species necessary to form the structure and a enable the functions of living organisms. Living organisms contain inorganic and organic molecules. Organic molecules contain carbon whereas inorganic compounds do not. Carbon oxides and carbonates are exceptions, they contain carbon but are considered inorganic because they don't contain hydrogen . The atoms of an organic molecule are typically organized around chains of carbon atoms.

Each level in the hierarchy can be described by its lower level. For example, the organism may describes at any of its components levels, including the atomic, molecular, cellular, histological, organ and organ systems levels. Furthermore, at every level of the hierarchy , new functions necessary the control of life appear. Theses new roles are not functions that the lower level components are capable of and are thus referred to as emergent properties.

The atom is the smallest and most fundamental unit of matter. The bonding of at least two atoms or more form molecules. The simplest level of organization for living things is a single organelle, which is composed of aggregates of macromolecules. The highest level of organization for living things is the biosphere, it encompasses all other levels. The biological levels of organization of living things arranged from the simplest to most complex are organelle, cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, organisms, populations, communities, ecosystem, and biosphere.