Cell Organelles: Functions and Cellular Processes

Vocabulary flashcards detailing eukaryotic and plant/animal cell organelles alongside their primary functions and associated cellular processes.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell that contains DNA; carries out the cellular processes of transcription and replication.

Cell Membrane

Cellular barrier that protects and supports the cell, regulating materials entering and leaving the cell.

Cytoskeleton

Network of fibers that maintains cell shape, moves cell parts, and helps cells move.

Ribosome

Cellular structure that synthesizes proteins (makes protein) during the process of translation.

Lysosome

Organelle that breaks down and recycles macromolecules for waste breakdown and digestion.

Cytoplasm

Fluid medium where organelles reside and metabolic reactions occur, including glycolysis and other chemical reactions.

Golgi Apparatus (Golgi Body)

Organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for storage or transport out of the cell.

Vacuole (Central Vacuole)

Organelle that stores materials and functions in storage and waste disposal (prominent as a central vacuole in plant cells).

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough E.R.)

Organelle that synthesizes and processes proteins; responsible for protein synthesis and protein folding.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth E.R.)

Organelle that synthesizes lipids, metabolizes carbohydrates, and detoxifies drugs; involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.

Cell Wall

Outer layer that shapes, supports, and protects the cell, providing structural support and preventing osmotic lysis.

Chloroplast

Organelle that converts solar energy into chemical energy stored in food via the process of photosynthesis.

Mitochondria

Organelle that converts chemical energy stored in food into usable compounds via cellular respiration.