Cell structure and functions (1)

Cell Membrane

The cell membrane is a thin layer that separates the inside of the cell from its outside environment. It keeps the cytoplasm inside while letting waste products out.

Nucleus

Covered with a membrane that allows materials to pass in and out. It's called the "control center” of the cell because it contains DNA. The nucleolus, the darker spot in the nucleus, storages materials

Mitochondria

Called the “power houses” of cells. It produce much of the energy a cell needs to carry out its functions

Vacuoles

Storage area of the cell. It stores water, food, and wastes

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Series of tunnels throughout the cytoplasm. They transport proteins from one part of the cell to another

Ribosomes

Protein factories of the cell. When ribosomes make proteins, they release them into the ER (endoplasmic reticulum)

Golgi Bodies

Receive proteins and other compounds from the ER (endoplasmic reticulum). They package these materials and distribute them to other parts of the cell

Cytoskeleton

Series of fibers made from proteins. It provides structure to the cell and gives it its shape

How do you look at animal cells?

To make cell parts visible under a microscope, you can apply a stain to the cells. Methylene blue is a stain often used to look at animal cells