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Cell Structure and Functions

The document provides an overview of cell structure and functions, emphasizing that cells are the basic units of life for all organisms. It details the components of typical animal and plant cells, highlighting differences such as the presence of a cell wall and chloroplasts in plant cells. Additionally, it discusses the importance of cells in performing life processes and includes practice questions for students.

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20 views3 pages

Cell Structure and Functions

The document provides an overview of cell structure and functions, emphasizing that cells are the basic units of life for all organisms. It details the components of typical animal and plant cells, highlighting differences such as the presence of a cell wall and chloroplasts in plant cells. Additionally, it discusses the importance of cells in performing life processes and includes practice questions for students.

Uploaded by

armaskakar
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

Biology Notes

Topic: Cell Structure and Functions

Student Name: __________


Class: 8
Date: __________

Introduction

The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life. All living organisms, from the
smallest bacteria to the largest animals, are made up of cells. Some organisms (like bacteria) are
unicellular, while others (like humans) are multicellular, consisting of billions of cells.

Cell Theory

1. All living things are made up of one or more cells.


2. The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in living things.
3. All cells come from pre-existing cells.

Structure of a Typical Animal Cell

 Cell Membrane: A thin layer that surrounds the cell. It controls the movement of
substances in and out of the cell.
 Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance that holds cell organelles and where chemical reactions
take place.
 Nucleus: The control center of the cell. It contains DNA, which carries genetic
information.
 Mitochondria: Known as the “powerhouse” of the cell. It produces energy through
respiration.
 Ribosomes: Small structures responsible for protein synthesis.
 Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Network of membranes.
o Rough ER (with ribosomes) helps in protein transport.
o Smooth ER (without ribosomes) helps in lipid synthesis.
 Golgi Apparatus: Packages and transports proteins and other materials.
 Lysosomes: Contain enzymes that break down waste materials and old cell parts.
Structure of a Typical Plant Cell

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

 Cell Wall: A rigid outer layer made of cellulose that provides support and shape.
 Chloroplasts: Contain chlorophyll, the green pigment used for photosynthesis.
 Large Central Vacuole: Stores water, minerals, and nutrients, and helps maintain the
shape of the cell.

Differences between Plant and Animal Cells

Feature Plant Cell Animal Cell

Cell Wall Present Absent

Chloroplasts Present (for photosynthesis) Absent

Vacuole Large central vacuole Small or absent

Shape Usually rectangular Usually round/irregular

Importance of Cells

 Cells carry out all life processes such as respiration, protein synthesis, and waste removal.
 Specialized cells (like nerve cells, muscle cells, and blood cells) perform specific
functions in multicellular organisms.
 In plants, photosynthetic cells provide food and energy for the plant and other organisms.

Practice Questions

1. State the three points of the cell theory.


2. Name three structures found only in plant cells.
3. Explain the function of mitochondria.
4. Why is the nucleus called the “control center” of the cell?
5. Draw and label a simple diagram of a plant cell.

Conclusion
Cells are the building blocks of life. Understanding their structure and functions helps us
understand how living organisms grow, survive, and carry out essential processes.

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