Cell Structure and Function

A set of flashcards defining key cell structures and their functions.

Nucleus

The brain or control center of a cell, controlling its functions and containing DNA.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of a cell, carrying out cellular respiration to provide energy.

Vacuole

The storage tank of a cell, containing water, nutrients, and waste; larger in plant cells.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like substance filling the cell, surrounding and supporting organelles.

Ribosomes

Tiny organelles that create proteins through synthesis, found free or attached to rough ER.

Rough ER

The conveyor belt of a cell that transports proteins wrapped in vesicles, with ribosomes attached.

Smooth ER

The conveyor belt involved in lipid production and detoxification, without ribosomes attached.

Golgi Complex

Receives proteins from the ER and adds nutrients, acting as a ‘printer’ for processing proteins.

Chloroplasts

Organelles found in plant cells that carry out photosynthesis, making glucose and giving plants their green color.

Lysosomes

The waste disposal and recycling system of a cell that uses enzymes to break down waste.

Eukaryotic

Advanced, complex cells found in animals and plants, having a nucleus and membrane-enclosed organelles.

Prokaryotic

Simpler, unicellular cells like bacteria, lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Cell Wall

The protective outer layer of a plant cell that shapes and protects the cell.

Cell Membrane

The barrier controlling what enters and exits the cell, protecting it from unwanted substances.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the genetic material providing instructions for cell functions and reproduction.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers in eukaryotic cells providing stability and structure.