The Vital Roles that Cell Structures Play

Within each cell there are specialized structures called organelles that perform specific functions.

Think of them as living factories; they create everything they need to survive.

Animal Cell

The main ones we will focus on for now are;› Nucleus› Cell Membrane› Cytoplasm› Mitochondria› Vacuoles

Nucleus

Nucleus

The brain of the cell, it runs the whole show

Directs all activities within the cell such as growing, moving and reproduction.

Cell Membrane

Cell Membrane

A “controlled gateway” that allows materials in and out of the cell

Uses diffusion

Is selectively permiable

Cytoplasm

Cytoplasm

Is considered the “kitchen” of the cell

Is the space where all the nutrients are kept that assist the cell in its life processes

Largest part of the cell

Mitochondria

Mitochondria

In the shape of a peanut

Is called the “powerhouses” of the cell because all the chemical reactions take place

Turns the energy the cell receives into a form it can use

Vacuoles

Vacuoles

“Storage rooms” within the cell

Nutrients, water, and other substances are stored here

Animal cells commonly have many vacuoles

Plant Cell

Plant Cells

Have all of the organelles listed in the ANIMAL CELL, but has a few extra ones;› Cell Wall› Chloroplasts› Vacuoles (different)

Cell Wall

Cell Wall

The “frame” of the plant cell

Only found in plant cells, are a means of structure and support for the cell

Look like a GREEN BRICK WALL

Chloroplasts

Chloroplasts

The “solar panels” of the plant cell

Are found in the green parts of the plants

Carry out photosynthesis; convert the suns energy into food for the cell

Plant Vacuoles

Vacuoles (plant)

Only have one massive vacuole, opposed to animals many

Major Storage unit

Most noticeable section of the plant cell