Cell Organelles Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards reviewing major cell organelles and their functions.

Nucleus

Organelle that houses the cell’s DNA and is the site of ribosome synthesis, essential for protein production.

Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the cell; converts energy from food into ATP through cellular respiration.

Golgi Apparatus

Stack of membranes that modifies, packages, and ships complex molecules in vesicles for storage or export.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

Membranous network that synthesizes lipids and stores calcium, especially in muscle cells.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

Endoplasmic reticulum studded with ribosomes; synthesizes and processes proteins.

Ribosome

Free-floating or ER-bound particle responsible for assembling amino acids into proteins.

Lysosome

Vesicle containing digestive enzymes; breaks down worn-out cell parts and destroys invading microbes.

Vacuole (Animal Cell)

Small, numerous sacs that store nutrients, waste, and water in animal cells.

Cell Membrane

Phospholipid bilayer that protects the cell and regulates what enters and leaves; present in all cells.

Cytoplasm

Jelly-like substance that suspends organelles and is the site of most cellular reactions.

Cell Wall

Rigid cellulose layer outside the cell membrane in plants; provides structural support, protection, and filtration.

Chloroplast

Disc-shaped organelle containing chlorophyll; site of photosynthesis converting CO₂ and H₂O into glucose using light energy.

Central Vacuole (Plant Cell)

Occupying ~30% of plant cell volume; stores cell sap and maintains turgor pressure against the cell wall.

]