Animal Cell Structure Quiz

Cell Structure Overview

• Eukaryotic cells contain various organelles with distinct functions, including those found in animal cells.
• Organelles include lysosomes, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), vacuoles, and chloroplasts, each playing vital roles in cellular activity.

Organelles and Their Functions

• Lysosomes: Contain digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.

• Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):

  • Rough ER: Studded with ribosomes; synthesizes proteins for export and cell membrane.
  • Smooth ER: Lacks ribosomes; involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification processes.

• Cytoskeleton: Provides structural support, facilitating movement within the cell.

  • Microfilaments: Composed of actin; assist in muscle contraction and cell movement.
  • Intermediate filaments: Provide mechanical support and help maintain cell shape.
  • Microtubules: Hollow tubes that aid in transport and cell division.

Cell Membrane and Cell Walls

• Plasma Membrane: Semi-permeable membrane that controls the entry and exit of substances.
• Cell Wall: Found in plant cells; provides additional support and protection.

Golgi Complex

• Composed of three main compartments (cisternae):
  • Cis Cisternae: The entry face where vesicles from the ER fuse.
  • Medial Cisternae: Processes and modifies proteins and lipids.
  • Trans Cisternae: The exit face where modified substances are packaged into vesicles for transport.

Specialized Structures

• Microvilli: Projections of the plasma membrane that increase surface area for absorption.
• Vacuole: Storage organelles, larger in plant cells, that hold materials like nutrients and waste.
• Chloroplast: Present in plant cells; responsible for photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy.

Summary of Differences

• Eukaryotic cells differ from prokaryotic cells in complexity, possessing membrane-bound organelles and a true nucleus.
• Plant cells include structures such as chloroplasts and a cell wall, whereas animal cells do not.