Cell Theory and Cell Structures

The structural and functional unit of an organism is a cell. All organisms are made up of one or more cells. New cells are formed from pre-existing cells.

A rigid outer layer surrounding the cell. It provides support and protection.

A thin layer surrounding the cytoplasm. It controls what enters and exits the cell.

The material within the cell membrane, excluding the nucleus. It is a gel-like substance where many chemical reactions occur.

A structure only found in plant cells, responsible for photosynthesis. It converts light energy into chemical energy.

The powerhouse of the cell, responsible for generating energy through cellular respiration.

A network of interconnected membranes that help transport materials and synthesize proteins.

A plant cell structure that helps maintain water balance, store nutrients, and give color to the cell.

A rigid outer layer present in plant cells that provides structural support and protection.

The boundary of the cell, responsible for controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

A process that occurs in both haploid and diploid cells, resulting in two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This type of division is responsible for growth and asexual reproduction.

A special type of cell division that occurs only in diploid cells. It involves two divisions, resulting in four daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This process produces gametes (sperm and egg cells).

The increase in size and dry mass of a cell. It's an irreversible process that occurs before a cell divides.

The process by which a cell divides into two identical daughter cells. It's an essential part of growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.

During this process, the number of chromosomes in the daughter cells remains the same as in the parent cell. This ensures that each new cell has a complete set of genetic instructions.