Cell Organelles And Their Functions Chart With Pictures
Cells are the building blocks of life. They are responsible for the growth, reproduction, and repair of all living organisms. Cells are complex structures made up of many different parts called organelles. Each organelle has a specific function that helps the cell carry out its many tasks.
Cell Membrane
The cell membrane is the outer layer of the cell. It is made up of a lipid bilayer that protects the cell and controls what substances can enter and exit the cell. It also contains proteins that help with cell communication and transport.
Cytoplasm
The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell. It contains all the organelles and provides a medium for chemical reactions to take place.
Nucleus
The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains the cell's DNA and is responsible for regulating gene expression and cell division.
Mitochondria
Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell. They are responsible for converting nutrients into energy that the cell can use.
Ribosomes
Ribosomes are responsible for making proteins. They are found throughout the cytoplasm and on the endoplasmic reticulum.
Endoplasmic Reticulum
The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of membranes that is responsible for protein and lipid synthesis, as well as detoxification and storage.
Golgi Apparatus
The Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for transport to their final destination.
Lysosomes
Lysosomes are responsible for breaking down and recycling cellular waste and debris.
Cilia and Flagella
Cilia and flagella are responsible for movement. Cilia are short, hair-like structures that move in a coordinated fashion to move fluids over the surface of cells. Flagella are longer and are responsible for the movement of cells, such as sperm cells.
Cytoskeleton
The cytoskeleton is a network of protein fibers that provides the cell with shape, support, and movement. It is composed of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments.
Chloroplasts
Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells that are responsible for photosynthesis. They convert light energy into chemical energy that the plant can use.
Cell Wall
The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, bacteria, and fungi. It provides support and protection for the cell.
Vacuoles
Vacuoles are storage organelles found in plant and animal cells. They are responsible for storing water, nutrients, and waste products.
Peroxisomes
Peroxisomes are organelles that are responsible for breaking down fatty acids and other toxic substances in the cell.
Centrosomes
Centrosomes are organelles that are responsible for organizing microtubules during cell division.
Understanding the functions of cell organelles is essential to understanding how cells work. This knowledge can help us develop treatments for diseases and improve our overall understanding of biology.