Animal and plant cells are the basic units of life, each with unique structures and functions. Here’s a breakdown of their organelles and their roles:
Animal Cell
- Nucleus: Controls cell activities and stores genetic material (DNA).
- Mitochondria: Produces energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.
- Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Rough ER synthesizes proteins; smooth ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies chemicals.
- Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for storage or transport.
- Lysosomes: Contains enzymes to digest waste materials and cellular debris.
- Ribosomes: Synthesizes proteins.
- Cytoplasm: Gel-like substance where organelles are suspended.
- Cell Membrane: Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Plant Cell
- Nucleus: Controls cell activities and stores genetic material (DNA).
- Mitochondria: Produces energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.
- Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Rough ER synthesizes proteins; smooth ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies chemicals.
- Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for storage or transport.
- Ribosomes: Synthesizes proteins.
- Cytoplasm: Gel-like substance where organelles are suspended.
- Cell Membrane: Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
- Cell Wall: Provides structural support and protection.
- Chloroplasts: Conducts photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy.
- Vacuole: Stores water, nutrients, and waste products.
Understanding these organelles helps in comprehending how cells function and maintain life processes.