Cell Structures and Functions

Cells: The Basic Units of Life

• Everything in our body is based on living cells.
• Cells are the fundamental units of life, carrying out essential processes.
• These processes include:
  • Respiration
  • Reproduction
  • Growth
  • Movement
  • Metabolism
  • Sensitivity
  • Excretion
• Cells are microscopic and require a microscope for viewing.

Common Cell Structures

• Cells commonly contain several key structures:
  • Golgi body
  • Rough endoplasmic reticulum
  • Cytoplasm
  • Mitochondria
  • Ribosomes
  • Nucleus
  • Nuclear membrane
  • Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
  • Cell surface membrane

Cell Membrane

• The cell membrane is a thin, flexible barrier surrounding the cell.
• It is present in cells of organisms.
• Function: Controls the movement of chemicals into and out of the cell.