Cell Structure and Functions

Parts of the Cell and what they do.

Nucleus

Control center; stores DNA/chromosomes; nucleolus makes ribosomes

Mitochondria

Produces energy (ATP) via cellular respiration; “powerhouse of the cell”

Ribosomes

Makes proteins; can be free in cytoplasm or on rough ER

Cell Membrane

Controls what enters/exits the cell; protection & support

Cytoplasm

Gel-like fluid; supports organelles; site of many chemical reactions

Smooth ER (sER)

Synthesizes lipids; detoxifies substances; stores calcium

Routh ER (rER)

Covered with ribosomes; Folds and

Golgi Body (Golgi apparatus)

Modifies, packages, and ships proteins and lipids

Chloroplast

Photosynthesis; converts sunlight into chemical energy (glucose)

Cell Wall

Rigid layer outside plant cells; provides support and protection

Large Central Vacuole

Stores water, nutrients, waste; helps maintain cell turgor pressure

Lysosomes

Contains digestive enzymes; breaks down waste, pathogens, and old organelles

Vesicles

Small sacs that transport materials within the cell and to/from the cell membrane