U 2: Cell Organelles

S7L2a

organelle

A specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function, often enclosed by its own membrane.

cell as a system

The cell organelles must all perform their own jobs and work together to support the cell’s health as a whole functioning unit

Prokaryote cell

A type of cell that lacks a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, typically smaller and simpler than eukaryotic cells, and includes bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryote cell

A type of cell that contains a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, typically larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells, and includes organisms such as animals, plants, fungi, and protists.

Animal cell

A type of eukaryotic cell that is typically round or irregular in shape and lacks a cell wall, containing various organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysosomes.

plant cell

A type of eukaryotic cell that has a defined shape, usually rectangular or square, possesses a rigid cell wall, and contains chloroplasts for photosynthesis along with organelles such as mitochondria and a large central vacuole.

cell wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells and some prokaryotes that provides structural support and protection.

cell membrane

A semipermeable membrane surrounding the cell, consisting of a lipid bilayer that regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

lysosome

A membrane-bound organelle containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

vacuole

A membrane-bound organelle in plant and fungal cells that stores nutrients, waste products, and helps maintain turgor pressure.

nucleus

The control center of the cell, containing the cell's genetic material (DNA) and regulating gene expression.

DNA

The molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in the growth and functioning of all known living organisms.

ribosome

A cellular structure that synthesizes proteins by translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into amino acid sequences.

mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondria generate ATP through cellular respiration, providing energy for various cellular processes.

chloroplast

Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

photosynthesis

The process whereby green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water.

cellular respiration

A metabolic process that converts glucose and oxygen into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water, releasing energy for cellular activities.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the primary energy carrier in cells, which provides energy for various biochemical processes.

cellular transport

The movement of substances across cell membranes, either into or out of a cell, ensuring the maintenance of homeostasis and proper functioning of the cell.

glucose

A simple sugar and key source of energy for cells, involved in cellular respiration to produce ATP.

mitosis

A process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, essential for growth, development, and tissue repair.

cell division

The process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells, crucial for growth, reproduction, and repair in living organisms.

binary fission

A type of asexual reproduction in which a single organism divides into two equal parts, resulting in two genetically identical cells. It is commonly observed in prokaryotic organisms like bacteria.