Cell structure and Microscopy

Eukaryotic cells

Cells that have a membrane bound nucleus and other organelles. Found in animals, plants, fungi and protists

2 key organelles of eukaryotic cells

Animal and plant cells

Nucleus

Powerhouse of the cell contains genetic material (DNA)

Cytoplasm

Jelly-like substance where most of the chemical reactions happen

Cell membrane

Controls what goes in and out of the cell

Mitochondria

Where aerobic respiration takes place, releasing energy

Ribosomes

Where protein synthesis occurs

Cell wall

Made of cellulose, provides support and structure

Chloroplasts

Contains chlorophyll, site of photosynthesis

Vacuole

Filled with cell sap, helps maintain turgor (rigidity)

Prokaryotic cells

Small cells (like bacteria) that don’t have a nucleus. Their genetic material is a single circular strand of DNA floating in the cytoplasm. They also lack mitochondria.

Magnification

How much bigger an image appears than the actual object

Resolution

The ability to distinguish between two points

Electron microscopes

Offers higher magnification and resolution than light microscopes, allowing us to see internal organelles in detail

Magnification formula

Image size/actual size

Image size formula

Magnification x actual size

Actual size formula

Image size/magnification