Cell Structure & Function http://koning.ecsu.ctstateu.edu/cell/cell.html

Cell Theory All living things are made up of cells. Cells are the smallest working units of all living things. All cells come from preexisting cells through cell division.

Definition of Cell A cell is the smallest unit that is capable of performing life functions.

Examples of Cells Amoeba Proteus Plant Stem Bacteria Red Blood Cell Nerve Cell

As you can see plant and animal cells have many parts As you can see plant and animal cells have many parts. We will focus on the animal cell and the 7 main organelles in this unit and their function.

What are organelles (cell parts) and their functions?

cell membrane The cell membrane holds and protects the cell. It controls what substances come into and out of the cell. “Gate of the Cell”

cytoplasm The cytoplasm is the watery, gel-like material in which cell parts move and cell activities take place. “Area of Movement”

mitochondria The mitochondria produces most of the energy for the cell. “Powerhouse of the Cell”

vacuoles The vacuoles store food, water, and chemicals. “Storage Tanks”

nucleus The nucleus regulates and controls cell activities, acting like the “brain” of the cell. “Control Center”

chromosomes The chromosomes direct the activities of cells. Thread like structures made of DNA. Found in the Nucleus “Director of the Cell”