2.1: Cells and Organelles

What is the difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells have nucleus and prokaryotic cells have no nucleus

Define the nucleus and give its function

The nucleus contains genetic material (DNA), the nucleolus, and chromatin for the cell. It is like the brain of the cell.

What is the function of chromatin?

To provide instructions for the cell

What type of cell is chromatin found in?

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

What is cytoplasm?

A fluid that keeps all organelles in place

What is the function of the nucleolus

It makes ribosomes

What are the functions of ribosomes?

They make protein

What is the function of the Golgi apparatus/body?

To pack proteins for export

What is the function of the endoplasmic reticulum, both smooth and rough?

It modifies and edits macromolecules and proteins for export

Define lysosomes and state their function.

They break down and get rid of unwanted material like enzymes.

What is the function of vacuoles?

To contain water and dissolved minerals.

Are vacuoles larger in plant cells or animal cells?

They are larger in plant cells. 

What is the function of the mitochondria?

It functions in cell respiration

Which organelle is found in plant eukaryotic cells but not animal eukaryotic cells? What is the function of this organelle?

The chloroplast is found in plant cells, and it is the reason for photosynthesis. The cell wall is also found in plant cell and it provides structure for the cell.

What is the function of the cytoskeleton? Is it found in plant or animal cells?

It provides structure for both plant and animal cells. 

What is the function of the cell membrane or plasma membrane?

The cell membrane is a thin, flexible barrier around the cell that keeps unwanted material out.

What do we call the structure of the cell membrane?

A phospholipid bilayer.

The cell membrane is called a selectively permeable membrane. What does this mean?

It only lets certain molecules into the cell.

What is the function of the cell wall? Is a cell wall found in plant or animal cells?

It gives the cell structure, and it is only found in plant cells. 

What is the function of vesicles inside the cell?

To transport molecules within the cell