Plant Cell
- Plant cells are the basic structural and functional units of plants.
- They are eukaryotic cells, meaning they have a well-defined nucleus enclosed within a membrane.
Structure of Plant Cell
|
Organelle |
Function |
|
1) Cell Membrane |
A double layer that supports and protects the cell. Allows materials in and out. |
|
2) Lysosome |
Contains digestive enzymes that destroy damaged organelles and invaders. |
|
3) Cytoplasm |
Jelly-like fluid that surrounds and protects the organelles. |
|
4) Nucleus |
The control center of the cell. Contains the DNA |
|
5) Nuclear Membrane |
Surrounds the nucleus. |
|
6) Nucleolus |
A round structure in the nucleus that makes ribosomes. |
|
7) Vacuole |
Stores food and water. |
|
8) Golgi Body |
Processes and packages materials for the cell. |
|
9) Mitochondria |
The “Powerhouse”. Breaks down food to produce energy in the form of ATP. |
|
10) Rough E.R. |
Builds and transports substances through the cell. Has ribosomes on it. |
|
11) Smooth E.R. |
Builds and transports substances through the cell. Does not have ribosomes. |
|
12) Ribosome |
Helps make protein for the cell. |
|
13) Cell Wall |
Gives shape and protection to plant cells. |
|
14) Chloroplast |
Changes sunlight into sugar for plant cells. Contains a green pigment called chlorophyll. |
Functions of Plant Cells
a) Photosynthesis: Chloroplasts capture sunlight and convert it into chemical energy (glucose).
b) Cellular Respiration: Mitochondria break down glucose to produce ATP, providing energy for cellular processes.
c) Storage: Vacuoles store water, nutrients, and waste products.
d) Support: The cell wall provides structural support and maintains cell shape.
e) Transport: The cell membrane regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell.
f) Synthesis: The endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus are involved in the synthesis, modification, and packaging of proteins and lipids.
