Cell Structure and Function

Parts of a Cell

  • Key Organelles:
    • Nucleus: Control center; contains DNA.
    • Ribosomes: Protein synthesis site.
    • Mitochondria: Convert sugar to ATP (cellular respiration).
    • Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
    • Rough ER: Has ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis.
    • Smooth ER: No ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis.
    • Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, packages, and sorts materials from ER.
    • Vesicles: Transport materials within the cell.
    • Lysosomes: Digestive enzymes for breaking down waste (only in animals).
    • Vacuole: Storage space (larger in plant cells).
    • Centrioles: Aid in cell division (only in animals).
    • Chloroplasts: Site of photosynthesis (only in plants).
  • Types of Cells:
    • Prokaryotes:
    • No nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.
    • DNA in nucleoid region, usually single-celled organisms.
    • Eukaryotes:
    • Defined nucleus, may be unicellular or multicellular.
  • Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells:
    • Only plants have chloroplasts and a cell wall.
    • Plants have a large central vacuole.
    • Only animal cells have lysosomes and centrioles.