- A. Ability to respond to stimuli ✓
- B. Ability to synthesize proteins
- C. Ability to generate energy
- D. Ability to replicate DNA
The answer to the question is: A. Ability to respond to stimuli
Cells possess the ability to respond to various stimuli in their environment, which is known as irritability or responsiveness. This characteristic allows cells to detect and react to changes in their surroundings, ensuring their survival and functionality. When a cell receives a stimulus, it initiates a series of biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to a response. This response can be in the form of movement, secretion of substances, changes in membrane potential, or alterations in gene expression.
Cells employ various mechanisms to detect and respond to stimuli. One such mechanism is through the presence of specialized receptors on the cell surface or within the cytoplasm. These receptors can recognize specific molecules or signals from the environment and transmit this information into the cell through signal transduction pathways. Examples of stimuli that cells can respond to include changes in temperature, pH, light intensity, pressure, touch, chemicals, and hormones.
The ability of cells to respond to stimuli is crucial for their survival and functioning within multicellular organisms. It allows cells to coordinate their activities with other cells and maintain homeostasis. Additionally, irritability enables cells to adapt to changing conditions and optimize their responses for survival.
