ap bio

Cell wall

A rigid layer outside the cell membrane in plants, fungi, and some bacteria.

Central vacuole

A large storage sac in plant cells that holds water, nutrients, and waste; keeps the cell firm (turgor pressure).

Chloroplast

The site of photosynthesis in plant and algae cells; converts light energy into sugars.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures on the cell surface that move fluid or help the cell move.

Contractile vacuole

A vacuole in some freshwater protists that pumps out excess water to prevent bursting.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like fluid plus organelles inside the cell (everything between the membrane and nucleus).

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers that gives shape, support, and helps movement inside the cell.

Cytosol

The liquid part of the cytoplasm (no organelles, just the fluid).