Cell Parts and Functions

Cell Wall Only in plant cells Helps to support and protect the cell

Cell Membrane All cells have a cell membrane Controls which substances go into and out of a cell which include food, water and oxygen

Nucleus The control center of a cell directing all of the cells activities Also houses the DNA or genetic material of the cell

Nuclear Envelope The membrane the surrounds the nucleus Allows material to pass into or out of the nucleus while keeping bad stuff out

Chromatin Tiny thread like material in the nucleus that contain the genetic material and direct the cells functions.

Nucleolus A dense ball inside the nucleus where ribosomes are made

Cytoplasm Region between the cell membrane and the nucleus that is a thick gel like substance Contains most of the cells organelles The liquid part of the cell

Mitochondria Known as the powerhouse of the cell because they convert energy in food molecules into energy the cell can use and carry out it’s functions.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Passageways that carry proteins and other molecules from one part of a cell to another

Ribosomes Attach to the surface of the ER and function as factories to produce proteins

Golgi Bodies Receive proteins and other newly formed materials from the ER, package them, and distribute them to other parts of the cell

Chrloroplasts ONLY in plant cells Capture energy from sunlight and use it to produce food for the cells Contain chlorophyll which is a green pigment that gives plants their green color

Vacuoles Storage area of the cell Most plants have one large vacuole Some animal cells do not have vacuoles. Can store food and waste products

Lysosomes Small round structures that contain chemicals that break down certain materials in a cell To lyse means to split

Know this!!! There are levels of organization involving cells In many-celled organisms cells are often organized into Tissues Organs Organ systems