Biology Cells Names and Functions

Cell Structure and Functions

• Cell Wall: Provides protection and structural support, primarily found in plant cells.
• Cytoskeleton: Maintains shape in single-celled organisms and supports organelles in eukaryotic cells.
• Cell Membrane: Regulates substance movement in and out of cells; located just inside the cell wall in plant cells.
• Nucleus: Acts as the control center of the cell, overseeing all cellular activities.

Nucleus and its Components

• Nuclear Envelope: Membrane that encases the nucleus, providing protection.
• Chromatin: Contains genetic instructions essential for directing cellular functions.
• Nucleolus: Site within the nucleus for ribosome production.

Cytoplasmic Environment

• Cytoplasm: Gel-like substance that fills the cell, located between the cell membrane and nucleus.

Energy and Protein Production

• Mitochondria: Organelles that convert food molecules into energy usable by the cell.
• Endoplasmic Reticulum: Network of passageways aiding in the synthesis of proteins and other materials.
• Ribosomes: Sites where proteins are synthesized.
• Golgi Body: Receives, packages, and redistributes proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum.

Plant Cell Structures

• Chloroplasts: Organelles that capture sunlight for food production, found exclusively in plant cells.
• Vacuoles:
  • Plant cells contain one large central vacuole for storage and support.
  • Animal cells have smaller vacuoles for storing nutrients and waste.

Cellular Cleaning and Recycling

• Lysosomes: Contain digestive enzymes that break down food particles and recycle old cell components.

Levels of Organization

• Unicellular: Organisms consisting of a single cell.
• Multicellular: Organisms composed of multiple cells working together.
• Tissue: A group of similar cells working together for a specific function.
• Organ: Composed of different tissues performing a collective function.
• Organ System: A group of organs coordinating to fulfill a major function.

Organelles

• Defined as specialized structures within cells that perform distinct functions critical to cell survival and activity.

Cell Theory

• Fundamental concept in biology stating:
  • All living organisms are made of cells.
  • Cells serve as the basic units of structure and function in living things.
  • New cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Test your knowledge on key cell components with this flashcard quiz. Each card presents a cell structure along with its specific function, helping you understand the basics of cell biology. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their learning in the topic.