Parts Of The Cell
key notes:
Cell Membrane
Description: A thin, flexible barrier surrounding the cell.
Function:
- Protects the cell.
- Controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell (selectively permeable).
Cytoplasm
Description: A jelly-like substance that fills the space between the cell membrane and the nucleus.
Function:
- Provides a medium for chemical reactions to occur.
- Suspends and supports the cell’s organelles.
Nucleus
Description: The control center of the cell, containing the cell’s genetic material (DNA).
Function:
- Regulates cell activities like growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
- Contains the nucleolus, where ribosomes are made.
Mitochondria
Description: Bean-shaped organelles, often called the “powerhouses” of the cell.
Function:
- Produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
Description: A network of membranes found throughout the cell.
- Rough ER: Has ribosomes attached, involved in protein synthesis.
- Smooth ER: Lacks ribosomes, synthesizes lipids and detoxifies chemicals.
Function: Transports materials within the cell.
Ribosomes
- Description: Small, spherical structures found either floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the Rough ER.
- Function: Synthesize proteins.
Golgi Apparatus
Description: A stack of flattened membranes.
Function:
- Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport.
Lysosomes (mostly in animal cells)
Description: Small sacs containing digestive enzymes.
Function:
- Break down waste materials and cellular debris.
Vacuoles
Description: Storage sacs found in cells.
- Plant Cells: Large central vacuole for storing water and maintaining cell structure.
- Animal Cells: Smaller vacuoles.
Function: Store nutrients, waste, and other materials.
Chloroplasts (only in plant cells)
Description: Green organelles containing chlorophyll.
Function:
- Capture sunlight to perform photosynthesis, producing food for the plant.
Cell Wall (only in plant cells)
Description: A rigid outer layer made of cellulose.
Function:
- Provides structure and protection.
- Maintains the shape of the cell.
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