1.5 Eukaryotic Cells: animal cells

What are eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes are mostly multicellular organisms that are made up of eukaryotic cells.

Examples are animals, plants, fungi, and protists. 

What are prokaryotes?

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms made up of prokaryotic cells.

Examples include bacteria.

Which organelles can be found in animal cells?

1. Cell-surface membrane or plasma membrane

2. Rough endoplasmic reticulum

3. Nucleus

4. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum 

5. Lysosomes

6. Ribosomes

7. Golgi apparatus 

8. Mitochondria 

Describe the structure of the nucleus.

The nucleus is surrounded by a nuclear envelope that contains pores. It contains a nucleolus and genetic information as chromosomes.

What is the role of the nucleus in a cell?

1. Contains DNA that controls the cell's activities

2. Synthesises ribosomes 

3. Allows exchange of substances between the nucleus and the cytoplasm

What is the role of the cell-surface membrane in a cell?

1. Controls movement of substances into and out of the cell

2. Cell signalling

Describe the structure and function of a mitochondrion.

A mitochondrion contains a liquid matrix and is surrounded by a double membrane. The inner membrane is folded to form cristae. A mitochondrion also contains its own DNA and ribosomes. 

The function of a mitochondrion is to carry out aerobic respiration and produce ATP.

Describe the structure and function of a ribosome. 

A ribosome is made of proteins and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). It contains a large subunit and a small subunit.

The function of a ribosome is to carry out protein synthesis.

Describe the structure and functions of the Golgi apparatus.

The Golgi apparatus contains cisternae (fluid-filled sacs) and vesicles.

The Golgi apparatus has the following functions; 

1. Processes and packages lipids and proteins 

2. Stores and transports lipids and proteins 

3. Synthesises lysosomes 

What is the difference between the structure of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and the rough endoplasmic reticulum?

The rough endoplasmic reticulum is covered with ribosomes, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is not.

What is the function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?

The rough endoplasmic reticulum synthesises and transports proteins. 

What is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum synthesises, stores and transports lipids and carbohydrates.

What is the function of a lysosome?

A lysosome contains enzymes that allow it to digest pathogens and other cells.

Which components does the cytoskeleton contain?

1. Microfilaments

2. Microtubules

3. Intermediate filaments