Cell Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to cell structure and function, helping with the understanding and differentiation of organelles in plant and animal cells.

Organelle

Different structures inside a cell that have specific jobs or functions.

Cell Membrane

Acts as a security guard, allowing some molecules in while keeping harmful substances out.

Cell Wall

Outer layer of plant cells that protects the cell and keeps harmful matter out.

Cytoplasm

Fluid that fills a cell, made up of many dissolved molecules used for various processes.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell, contains chromosomes/DNA, regulates growth and reproduction.

Nucleolus

Part of the nucleus made of RNA and protein, responsible for ribosome production.

Chloroplast

Organelle where photosynthesis occurs, converting light energy into sugars in plant cells.

Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the cell that performs cellular respiration to provide energy.

Golgi Apparatus

Processes and modifies molecules, then sends them out of the cell or stores them.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

Organelle important in the creation and storage of lipids.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum

Works with ribosomes to synthesize and package proteins; ribosomes attached to surface

Vacuole

Storage bubble that holds food and nutrients; larger in plant cells.

Ribosomes

Small organelles that build long chains of amino acids, known as the 'protein builders'.

Lysosome

Found only in animal cells, digests and breaks down food with enzymes.

Microtubules

Found only in animal cells, provides support to the cell and assists in cell division

Centrioles

Organelles made of microtubules, helping the cell divide during mitosis and meiosis.

Differences between Plant and Animal Cells

Plant cells have cell walls and larger vacuoles; animal cells have centrioles and no cell walls.