Overview of Cell Organelles and Their Functions

Cell Membrane

Controls what enters and exits the cell; maintains homeostasis.

Smooth and Rough ER

Smooth ER contains enzymes that aid cell function; Rough ER transports proteins and acts like a highway.

Nucleus and Nucleolus

Nucleus stores DNA and controls the cell; nucleolus makes ribosomes.

Small Vacuole

Stores and transports materials; smaller vacuoles are found in animal cells.

Golgi Bodies

Packages and ships proteins to their target areas.

Cell Wall

Provides structure and protection in plant cells.

Centrioles

Aid in cell division; found in animal cells.

Lysosomes

Clean up waste in animal cells (possibly in plant cells but rarely visible).

Large Vacuole

Stores water and nutrients in plant cells.

Chloroplast

Site of photosynthesis; found in plant cells.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell; responsible for cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Make proteins; found attached to the Rough ER and floating in the cytoplasm.