Organization of Matter

The following is a listing of the smallest unit of matter to the largest unit of matter.

• Subatomic Particle-an electron, proton, or neutron; one of the three major particles of which atoms are composed.
• Atom-smallest unit of an element that still retains the properties of that element.
• Molecule-a unit of two or more atoms, of the same or different elements, bonded together.
• Organelle-any of the various membranous sacs or other compartments inside the cell that separate different metabolic reactions within the cellular space and in time.
• Cell-smallest living unit; may live independently or as part of a multicellular organism.
• Tissue-a group of cells and intercellular substances functioning together in a multicellular organism.
• Organ-one or more types of tissues interacting as a structural, functional unit.
• Organ System-two or more organs whose separate functions are integrated in the performance of a specific task.
• Multicellular Organism-individual composed of specialized, interdependent cells arrayed in tissues, organs, and often organ systems.
• Population-groups of individuals of the same kind (same species) occupying a given area.
• Community-the populations of all species that occupy a habitat.
• Ecosystem-any community and its physical and chemical environment.
• Biosphere-those regions of the earth's water, crust, and atmosphere in which organisms can exist.