Which of the following is the simplest collection of matter that can live?

• A. Tissue
• B. Organ
• C. Molecules
• D. None of the listed responses is correct.
• E. Cell

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the hierarchy of biological organization, which includes molecules, cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.
2. Recognize that molecules are the chemical building blocks of life, but they do not have the capacity to live independently.
3. Identify that tissues are groups of similar cells working together to perform a specific function, but they cannot live independently without the support of other tissues and systems.
4. Understand that organs are structures composed of multiple tissue types working together to perform specific functions, but they are part of a larger system and cannot live independently.
5. Conclude that the cell is the simplest collection of matter that can live independently, as it is the basic unit of life capable of performing all necessary life processes.