Animal and plant cells

• Most animal cells have the following parts:

  • a nucleus
  • cytoplasm
  • a cell membrane
  • mitochondria
  • ribosomes.

  In addition to the parts found in animal cells, plant cells often have:

  • chloroplasts
  • a permanent vacuole filled with cell sap.

  Plant and algal cells also have a cell wall
• Nucleus: contains genetic material that controls the activities of the cell
• Cytoplasm: a gel like substance, where most of the chemical reactions in the cell take place
• Cell membrane: holds the cell together, controls what enters and leaves the cell
• Mitochondria: Site of aerobic respiration, transferring energy that the cell needs to work
• Ribosomes: site of protein synthesis
• Cell wall: is made up of cellulose which strengthens the cell.
• Chloroplasts: contains substance named chlorophyll, absorbing light needed for photosynthesis. So where photosynthesis occurs
• Vacuole: contains cell sap (solution of sugars and salts), helps maintain cell shape (rigid)