Cell structure

• Cell membrane


  Forms the outer covering of the cell to separate its contents from the environment. It also controls what goes in and out of the cell; meaning it is a semipermeable membrane
• Cytoplasm


  A gel-like substance between the cell membrane and nucleus that is made up of many different structures: organelles, vesicles and various particles. The cytoplasm contains enzymes and is where many of the chemical processes take place.
• Mitochondria


  Mitochondrion is an organelle that is normally found in large quantities within most cells. This organelle is an essential component in the process of cell respiration. The mitochondrion therefore helps to release energy that the cell requires.
• Nucleus


  The largest organelle found in most eukaryotic cells. It contains chromosomes (there are 46 of these in human cells) which carry the genetic material (the genes) and therefore control the activities of the cell
• Ribosomes


  They are where protein synthesis takes place in the cell (where protein is produced).
• Where is the cell wall located in a plant cell?

  Outside of the membrane
• What is the primary composition of the cell wall?

  Mostly cellulose
• How does the cell wall contribute to the shape of plant cells?

  It helps the cell keep its shape
• How does the cell wall differ from animal cells in terms of shape?

  Animal cells' shapes tend to vary
• Why is the toughness of the cell wall essential for plant cells?

  It helps absorb water and provides support
• What is the permeability characteristic of the cell wall?

  Freely permeable
• What does it mean that the cell wall is freely permeable?

  It allows materials to travel in and out
• What additional function does the cell wall provide to plant cells?

  It offers further protection
• What type of material is the cell wall?

  Non-living material
• Cytoplasm


  Chloroplasts are an essential component in the process of photosynthesis. They contain an important biomolecule known as chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is vital in the process of photosynthesis. The plant cells that make up the flowers, roots and woody stems of a plant do not contain chloroplasts and therefore do not undergo the process of photosynthesis (chloroplasts never appear in animal cells).
• Vacuole


  A vacuole is a permanent feature of mature plant cells. It contains cell sap (a watery liquid) which is a mixture of amino acids, mineral salts, sugars and waste substances. As well as holding materials and waste products, a vacuole provides support and structure for the growing plant as it helps to maintain pressure within the plant cell.
• Animal cells do not contain a cell wall, vacuole or chloroplasts, and do not photosynthesise