Cell Structure & Function Notes

Prokaryotic

Cells without a nucleus; DNA is located in the cytoplasm, small and simple in structure; example: bacteria.

Eukaryotic

Cells with a nucleus; DNA is contained within the nucleus, larger and more complex in structure; examples: plants, animals, fungi.

Cell Membrane

Structure that selectively controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Cytoplasm

Jelly-like fluid that surrounds organelles and supports chemical reactions.

Nucleus

Control center of the cell; contains DNA and directs cell activities.

Nucleolus

Located inside the nucleus; involved in the production of ribosomes.

Mitochondria

Organelles that perform cellular respiration and convert chemical energy from food into ATP.

Chloroplasts

Organelles found in plants and some algae; perform photosynthesis and convert light energy into chemical energy.

Ribosomes

Small structures made of RNA and protein that build proteins by following instructions from DNA.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An internal membrane system involved in transporting materials and helps make proteins and lipids.

Rough ER

Type of ER that has ribosomes attached and is involved in protein synthesis.

Smooth ER

Type of ER that does not have ribosomes; involved in the making and processing of lipids.

Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and other materials and sends them to their destinations.

Vesicles

Small membrane-bound sacs that transport packaged materials around the cell.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain digestive enzymes to break down lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and old/damaged cell parts.

Vacuoles

Storage structures for materials like water, salts, and nutrients; plant cells have a large central vacuole to maintain turgor pressure.

Cell Wall

Rigid outer layer made of cellulose found in plant cells; provides structural support.

Centrioles

Structures in animal cells that help with cell division.

Turgor Pressure

Pressure within plant cells that helps maintain their shape and structural integrity.