General Biology 1 - Lesson 14: Animal Cell vs. Plant Cell

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the organelles and structural differences between plant and animal cells as discussed in General Biology 1.

Animal Cell

A type of eukaryotic cell that makes up the tissues and organs of animals.

Plant Cell

A type of eukaryotic cell that is responsible for the basic structural and functional unit of plants.

Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane)

Controls what enters and exits the cell and provides protection and structural support.

Nucleus

Contains $DNA$ which carries the instructions for all cell activities.

Nucleolus

The site of ribosome synthesis.

Mitochondria

The powerhouses of the cell that produce energy ($ATP$) through cellular respiration by breaking down glucose.

Ribosomes

Produce proteins which are essential for cell growth, repair, and function.

Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for storage or transport.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

A network of membranes that transports materials throughout the cell and assists ribosomes in making and delivering proteins to the Golgi apparatus.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

A network of membrane-covered tubes and sacs without ribosomes used for storing, synthesizing lipids, and removing toxic substances.

Vacuole

A storage unit or warehouse that keeps extra supplies and waste until needed; rare in plants (who use it for waste) and common in animal cells.

Cytoplasm

Gel-like liquid contained within cells consisting primarily of water, but also containing ions, proteins, and small molecules.

Peroxisome

Organelle responsible for the breakdown of fatty acids and detoxification.

Cell Wall

A structure present in plant cells that provides structural support and prevents excessive water intake; it is absent in animal cells.

Chloroplasts

Organelles present in plant cells containing chlorophyll, which enables photosynthesis; they are absent in animal cells.

Centrioles

Structures present in animal cells that are important in cell division (mitosis & meiosis); they are absent in most plant cells.

Lysosomes

Common in animal cells, these contain digestive enzymes to break down waste, debris, and pathogens; they are rare in plant cells.