Organelle Structures and Functions
Plasma/Cell Membranes
Cell Wall
Cytoplasm
Fluid that fills up a cell; spaces in 'skeleton'
It dissolves many molecules
Found in both plant and animal cells
Nucleus
Bound by double membrane and found in the center of a cell, it contains genetic material.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Nuclear Membrane
Two layered membrane that encases the nucleus. It's function is to regulate the exchange of substances between the nucleus and cytoplasm.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Nucleolus
The most important substructure in the nucleus, it's function is to fulfil the need for large-scale productions of rRNA.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Centrioles
Nine groups of microtubules arranged in a specific way. Function is to help the cell when it comes time to divide.
Found only in animal cells.
Chromatin
Located in the nucleus; a mass of genetic material; DNA and proteins. Condenses to form chromosomes during eukaryotic cell division.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Ribosomes
Suspended in the cytosol and bound in the endoplasmic reticulum. It's function is assembling of the proteins for a cell.
Found only in animal cells.
Golgi Apparatus
A series of membranes shaped like pancakes. It gathers simple molecules and combines them to make complete molecules.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Endoplasmic Reticulum
A network of tubules and flattened sacs. Forms a continuous connection with the nuclear envelop.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Mitochondria
A rod-shaped cell enclosed in two membranes. Function is to produce energy and maintain a proper concentration of calcium ions.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Chloroplast
Surrounded by two membranes that contain and protect the inner parts of the chloroplast. Function is to convert light energy into sugars used by the cells (photosynthesis).
Found only in plant cells.
Lysosomes
Single membrane organelles hat float in cytoplasm. Digests and holds enzymes created by the cell.
Found only in animal cells.
Peroxisomes
Single membrane that contains digestive enzymes. Holds enzymes that require oxygen.
Found only in plant cells.
Vacuole
Storage bubbles founds in cells; membrane surrounds a mass of fluid. Function is to store any variety of nutrients a cell might need to survive.
Found in both plant and animal cells.
Cytoskeleton
Made of microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Responsible for cell shape, cell movement, and movement of organelles in a cell.
Found in both plant and animal cells.