plant and animal cells

Nucleus

The 'control center' of the cell that contains genetic material (DNA) and coordinates cell activities like growth and reproduction.

Mitochondria

The 'powerhouse' of the cell where aerobic respiration occurs to produce energy in the form of ATP.

Cell Membrane

A semi-permeable lipid bilayer that surrounds the cell, controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Cytoplasm

A jelly-like substance within the cell membrane that contains organelles and is the site of many chemical reactions.

Ribosomes

Small organelles responsible for protein synthesis; they can be free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the Endoplasmic Reticulum.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found only in plant cells (made of cellulose) that provides structural support and protection.

Chloroplasts

Organelles found only in plant cells that contain chlorophyll and are the site of photosynthesis.

Large Central Vacuole

A large, fluid-filled organelle found in plant cells that maintains turgor pressure and stores water/nutrients.

Centrioles

Cylindrical structures found mainly in animal cells that help with cell division by organizing microtubule assembly.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A network of membranes involved in producing proteins (Rough ER) and lipids (Smooth ER).

Golgi Apparatus

A stack of flattened membranes that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport out of the cell or to other organelles.

Lysosomes

Spherical organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris; they are primarily found in animal cells.

Nucleolus

A dense region within the nucleus that is responsible for the synthesis of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and the assembly of ribosome subunits.

Cytoskeleton

A dynamic network of protein filaments (including microtubules and microfilaments) that provides structural support, maintains cell shape, and facilitates movement.

Peroxisomes

Specialized metabolic compartments that contain enzymes to break down fatty acids and detoxify harmful substances, producing hydrogen peroxide (H{2}O{2}) as a byproduct.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

The portion of the Endoplasmic Reticulum that lacks ribosomes and is primarily