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Cell Structure

NotesQuestionsFlashcards

Animal Cells

Animal cells contain: cell membrane (controls what enters/leaves), cytoplasm (where chemical reactions occur), nucleus (contains DNA, controls cell activities), mitochondria (site of aerobic respiration), and ribosomes (site of protein synthesis).

Plant Cells

Plant cells have all the organelles of animal cells plus: cell wall (made of cellulose, provides structural support), permanent vacuole (contains cell sap, keeps cell turgid), and chloroplasts (contain chlorophyll, site of photosynthesis).

Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic

Eukaryotic cells (animal, plant) have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Prokaryotic cells (bacteria) have no true nucleus — DNA is free in the cytoplasm as a single circular chromosome. They may also have plasmids (small rings of DNA).

Key Points

  • All cells have: cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, DNA
  • Plant cells also have: cell wall, vacuole, chloroplasts
  • Prokaryotes have no nucleus; DNA is free in cytoplasm
  • Mitochondria = respiration; Chloroplasts = photosynthesis; Ribosomes = protein synthesis

Exam Tips

  • Learn to draw and label both plant and animal cells
  • Know the function of every organelle — this is commonly tested
  • When comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic, mention size difference too (~1-5μm vs ~10-100μm)