Cell Organelles Table
Visual guide to Cellular Anatomy. Explore parts, functions, and differences between Plant and Animal cells.
Nucleus
Control center, stores genetic info, regulates cell activities
Double membrane, contains DNA/Chromosomes, Nucleolus
Mitochondria
Powerhouse of the cell, Cellular Respiration (ATP production)
Double membrane, inner folds (Cristae), own DNA
Ribosomes
Protein synthesis
Non-membrane bound, RNA + Protein
Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)
Protein synthesis and transport
Network of tubules with Ribosomes attached
Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)
Lipid synthesis, detoxification
Network of tubules without Ribosomes
Golgi Apparatus
Packaging, modification, and transport of proteins/lipids
Stacked flattened sacs (Cisternae)
Lysosomes
Suicide bags, intracellular digestion, waste disposal
Single membrane sac with hydrolytic enzymes
Vacuole
Storage of water, nutrients, waste; provides turgidity in plants
Single membrane (Tonoplast), fluid-filled
Chloroplast
Photosynthesis (converts light energy to chemical energy)
Double membrane, Thylakoids, Stroma, Chlorophyll
Cell Wall
Protection, structural support, shape
Rigid outer layer (Cellulose in plants)
Cell Membrane
Selectively permeable barrier, transport, protection
Phospholipid bilayer with proteins (Fluid Mosaic Model)
Centrioles
Cell division (Spindle fiber formation)
Cylindrical structures (Microtubules)
Understanding Cell Analogy
A cell relates to a city. Just like a city has power plants, garbage disposal, and post offices, a cell has organelles that perform specific tasks to keep the "city" alive.
Nucleus = City Hall
Controls all activities and stores the blueprints (DNA).
Mitochondria = Power Plant
Generates energy (electricity) for the city to run.
Lysosome = Recycling Center
Breaks down waste and recycles old parts.
Golgi = Post Office
Packages and ships proteins to where they are needed.
Plant vs Animal Cells
Plant Cell
- Cell Wall: Present (Rigid, Cellulose)
- Chloroplasts: Present for Photosynthesis
- Vacuole: Large central vacuole
Animal Cell
- Cell Wall: Absent (Irregular shape)
- Chloroplasts: Absent (Heterotrophic)
- Centrioles: Present (for cell division)
Study Tips
Use Analogies
Relating organelles to city parts (like in the section above) helps in long-term retention.
Draw Diagrams
Practice drawing and labeling both plant and animal cells to understand the layout.
Compare & Contrast
Focus on the 3 main differences: Cell Wall, Chloroplasts, and Vacuole size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Powerhouse" of the cell?
The Mitochondria is called the powerhouse because it generates energy (ATP) through cellular respiration, powering the cell's activities.
Which organelles are unique to Plant cells?
Plant cells have a Cell Wall (for rigidity), Chloroplasts (for photosynthesis), and a large central Vacuole (for turgidity). Animal cells lack these or have very small temporary vacuoles.
What is the function of the Nucleus?
The Nucleus is the "Brain" or "Control Center" of the cell. It contains genetic material (DNA) and coordinates cell activities like growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
What is the difference between RER and SER?
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) has ribosomes on its surface and synthesizes proteins. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) lacks ribosomes and synthesizes lipids (fats) and helps in detoxification.
What are "Suicide Bags" of the cell?
Lysosomes are called suicide bags because they contain powerful digestive enzymes. If the cell is damaged, lysosomes may burst and digest their own cell.
What is the function of the Cell Membrane?
The Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane) is a selectively permeable barrier that controls the entry and exit of substances, maintaining the cell's internal environment.
Why do plant cells need a Cell Wall?
Plants do not have a skeleton. The rigid Cell Wall (made of cellulose) provides structural support, allowing plants to grow upright and withstand environmental stress.
What happens in the Chloroplast?
Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll which traps sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (food). This process is called Photosynthesis.
Do animal cells have vacuoles?
Yes, but they are very small, temporary, and numerous. They primarily store waste or nutrients, unlike the large central vacuole in plants which maintains pressure.
What are Ribosomes made of?
Ribosomes are made of RNA and proteins. They are the site of protein synthesis in the cell.