Cell Organelles: Functions and Structures in Biology

Cytoplasm

organelles are suspended within it

cytoskeleton

made up of microtubules and microfilaments; provides structure for the cell

Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, packages, and sorts

Lysosomes

Contains digestive enzymes that breaks stuff down

mitochondria

converts chemical energy into ATP

Nucleus

contains most of the cells DNA

Cell Membrane

Regulates what materials enter and leave the cell

Ribosome

Produces proteins by following coded instructions from the DNA

Rough ER

holds ribosomes; secretes substances that are packaged into vesicles

smooth ER

builds lipids (fat) molecules

Vacuole

stores undigested nutrients

Vesicle

moves products in, out, and around the cell

Centrioles

Assists in cell division

Flagellum

Moves a cell through its surroundings

Cell wall

Maintains cell shape; contains cellulose

Chloroplast

Site of photosynthesis (makes sugar/food for the plant)

Large Central Vacuole

Stores chemicals such as salt; contributes to plant growth by absorbing water and causes the cell to expand

Plasma membrane

a thin, flexible barrier that surrounds all cells, separating the cell's interior from the outside environment