Unit 2 Cells

Nucleus

The brain of the cell that stores DNA and controls cell activities.

Plasma Membrane

A structure that controls what goes in and out of the cell, composed of a double layer of phospholipids.

Cell Wall

A hard, rigid outer layer made of cellulose found only in plants for protection.

Mitochondria

Known as the powerhouse of the cell, it generates ATP through cellular respiration.

Chloroplast

An organelle that makes glucose through the process of photosynthesis.

Cellular Respiration

The process where cells break down glucose to release energy in the form of ADP.

Vacuoles

Membrane-bound organelles used for storage.

Vacuoles in Plants

Typically a single large vacuole that stores water.

Vacuoles in Animals

Composed of a few small vacuoles that store nutrients.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures that synthesize proteins.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

A type of ER involved in lipid synthesis, located next to the nucleus.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

A type of ER that produces proteins, characterized by being covered in ribosomes.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that packages proteins and lipids into vesicles for transport.

Lysosomes

Organelles that serve as the cell's 'garbage men' by breaking down waste and cellular debris.

Cytoplasm

The aqueous fluid that fills cells and holds organelles in place.

Flagella

A tail-like structure in single-celled organisms used for movement.

Cilia

Hair-like structures in single-celled organisms that aid in movement.