JC Cell Structure and Function

cell

smallest unit of life

nucleus

contains DNA

controls the cell's activities

cytoplasm

jelly-like substance inside the cell

where reactions happen

cell membrane

controls what enters and exits the cell

Mitochondria

where aerobic respiration takes place

chloroplast

where photosynthesis happens

contains green pigment call chlorophyll

found in plant cells

large vacuole

contains cell sap

found in plant cells

cell wall

gives strength and support to the cell

found in plant cells

made of cellulose

cellulose

carbohydrate that plant cell walls are made of

sperm cell

male reproductive cell

Has a tail for swimming

Contains father's chromosomes

red blood cell

blood cells that carry oxygen

contain haemoglobin

Biconcave disc shape and no nucleus → more space for oxygen

egg cell (ovum)

female reproductive cell

Lots of mitochondria to release energy

Contains mother's chromosomes

muscle cell

cell that contracts to allow movement

Lots of mitochondria to release energy for movement

ciliated cell

cell that has cilia (tiny hairs) to help waft materials along

Moves substances, e.g. eggs in the Fallopian tube

root hair cell

Found in plant roots, absorbs water and minerals

Has a finger-like projection to increase surface area

leaf cell

Found in plant leaves

Has many chloroplasts to trap light for photosynthesis (how plants make food)

nerve cell (neurone)

Carries electrical impulses around the body

Has a long axon to help transmit the messages

ribosomes

make proteins