To arrange these biological entities in order from smallest to largest, we need to understand their definitions and relationships within ecological and biological hierarchies.
- Molecules: These are the smallest units in this list, made up of atoms and forming the basic building blocks of cells.
- Cells: Cells are composed of molecules and are the basic units of life. They can function independently or as part of larger organisms.
- Organisms: An organism is a living entity that can function on its own, made up of one or more cells.
- Tissues: Tissues are groups of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function within an organism.
- Organs: Organs are structures composed of different types of tissues that work together for a particular task.
- Organ Systems: These are groups of organs that work together to perform complex functions for the body, such as the digestive system.
- Organisms (again): At this stage, we are typically considering multiple organisms within a population or community.
- Population: A population consists of members of the same species that live in a specific area at the same time.
- Community: A community consists of different populations that live and interact in a particular area.
- Ecosystem: An ecosystem includes all living things in a particular area, along with the non-living components, interacting as a system.
- Biosphere: The biosphere is the largest level, encompassing all ecosystems on Earth, representing the global sum of all living things.
Thus, the final order from smallest to largest is:
- Molecules
- Cells
- Tissues
- Organs
- Organ Systems
- Organisms
- Population
- Community
- Ecosystem
- Biosphere