Scribd
Upload
21 views1 page

Cell Structure and Function Notes

Cells are the basic structural and functional units of life, classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types. Key organelles include the nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes, each serving specific functions such as energy production and protein synthesis. Important distinctions include that plant cells have cell walls and chloroplasts, while animal cells do not, and the methods of cell division differ between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Uploaded by

Anamta Faraz
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
21 views1 page

Cell Structure and Function Notes

Cells are the basic structural and functional units of life, classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types. Key organelles include the nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes, each serving specific functions such as energy production and protein synthesis. Important distinctions include that plant cells have cell walls and chloroplasts, while animal cells do not, and the methods of cell division differ between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Uploaded by

Anamta Faraz
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

■ Cell Structure & Function – MDCAT Notes

Definition of Cell
The cell is the structural and functional unit of life. All living organisms are made of cells. There are
two types of cells: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic.

Types of Cells
Prokaryotic: No true nucleus, no membrane-bound organelles, small (1–10 µm), example: bacteria.
Eukaryotic: True nucleus, membrane-bound organelles, large (10–100 µm), example: plant, animal
cells.

Cell Organelles and Their Functions


- Nucleus: Controls cell activities, contains DNA.
- Cell membrane: Semi-permeable, controls entry/exit of substances.
- Cytoplasm: Jelly-like fluid that holds organelles.
- Mitochondria: Powerhouse, produces ATP.
- Ribosomes: Site of protein synthesis.
- ER: Rough (with ribosomes) – protein transport, Smooth – lipid synthesis.
- Golgi apparatus: Modifies, packages proteins.
- Lysosomes: Digests waste, 'suicide bags'.
- Chloroplast (plant): Photosynthesis.
- Cell wall (plant): Rigid structure, made of cellulose.
- Vacuole: Storage of water, nutrients.
- Centrioles (animal): Helps in cell division.

Functions of a Cell
1. Energy production
2. Protein synthesis
3. Growth and repair
4. Communication
5. Transport of materials

Important MDCAT Facts


- Cell membrane is selectively permeable.
- Mitochondria and chloroplast have their own DNA.
- Plant cells have cell walls and chloroplasts; animal cells do not.
- Lysosomes are called suicide bags.
- Prokaryotes divide by binary fission; eukaryotes by mitosis/meiosis.

You might also like