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There are three major functional parts in a cell:
1.
Energy system - This consists of proteins which provide energy
through molecular chemical reactions to perform functions of life.
2.
Information System (DNA) - This is the genetic code which
allows cells to grow and to reproduce. This information is transferred
from one generation to the next.
3.
Membrane - A membrane encloses all the chemical reactions
of molecules within a cell. It is made from structures called lipids.
Requirement for life to arise:
1.
Raw material for life – Elements
The elements hydrogen and helium were formed at the time of the
Big Bang, when the universe was created. All heavier elements are
created inside the core of massive stars through the process of nuclear
fusion. When these stars die in a supernova, they seed clouds of gas
and dust with these heavier elements, which in turn collapse to form
new stars and planets.
2. Water
For simple molecules to come together to form more complex molecules, we need a liquid to help them move around, such as water.
ICY SCIENCE | QTR 1 2014