Cell structures (notes)

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells with the potential to develop into various cell types.

Cell theory

States that all organisms are made of one or more cells, and the cell is the basic unit of life.

Mitochondria

Double membrane-bound organelles responsible for aerobic respiration and energy production.

Chloroplast

Double membrane-bound organelles that conduct photosynthesis in plant cells.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures that synthesize proteins.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Cell compartmentalization

The division of cellular functions into distinct organelles to enhance efficiency and organization.

Cilia and Flagella

Hair-like structures that enable movement in some eukaryotic cells.

Centriole

A structure in animal cells that helps organize microtubules during cell division.

Vesicles

Small membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within the cell and to the cell membrane.

Prokaryotic cells

Cells that do not contain a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic cells

More complex cells that contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.