Cell Structure and Function

This assignment looks at the structure and function of cells. You will learn about the main types of cells and their sub-types, as well as the functions of different cell parts.

There are two main types of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Prokaryotic cells are simpler than eukaryotic cells and do not have a nucleus or organelles. Eukaryotic cells are more complex and have a nucleus and organelles. There are four main types of eukaryotic cells: animal cells, plant cells, fungi cells, and protist cells. Animal cells and plant cells are the most common types of eukaryotic cells.

Animal cells and plant cells share many similarities, but there are also some important differences. Animal cells are typically smaller than plant cells, and do not have a cell wall. Plant cells have a cell wall made of cellulose, which gives them their shape and helps protect them from damage. Plant cells also have chloroplasts, which allow them to photosynthesize and make their own food.

Fungi cells are similar to plant cells in that they have a cell wall made of cellulose. However, fungi cells do not have chloroplasts, so they cannot photosynthesize. Fungi obtain nutrients by breaking down organic matter. Protist cells are the most diverse type of eukaryotic cell, and can be either single-celled or multi-celled. Protists can be classified based on their mode of nutrition: autotrophic, heterotrophic, or mixotrophic.

The cell is the basic unit of life. All cells have a plasma membrane that surrounds and protects the cell. The plasma membrane is made of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins. The plasma membrane is selectively permeable, meaning that it allows some substances to pass through while keeping others out.

Cells also have cytoplasm, which is the jelly-like material inside the cell. The cytoplasm contains many different organelles, which are specialized structures that perform specific functions. One example of an organelle is the nucleus, which houses the cell’s DNA. Other organelles include the endoplasmic reticulum, golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and mitochondria.

The function of a cell is determined by its structure. For example, the cell wall gives plant cells their rigidity, and the chloroplasts allow plant cells to photosynthesize. Animal cells do not have a cell wall, but they do have other specialized structures that perform different functions.