Organelles Flashcards
What is an organelle?
a cellular structure that performs specific functions
What is the cytosol?
Cytosol is the aqueous fluid that surrounds organelles inside of a cell
What is the cytoplasm?
the cytosol and organelles inside the plasma membrane excluding the nucleus.
What is the role of the nucleus?
The nucleus is surrounded by a double membrane and its role is to protect the genetic information ( DNA ) of the cells.
What is the nucleolus
A smaller structure inside the nucleus which is the site of ribosome production.
Ribosomes
tiny structures of rRNA and proteins. they either float freely throughout the the cytoplasm or are attached to the rough ER. Ribosomes assemble the building blocks to make protein.
Rough endoplasmic reticulum
membranous chain of connected flattened sacs which are coated with ribosomes, which allows it to synthesis and modify proteins. Usually surrounds or is close to the nucleus.
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
membranous chain of connected flattened sacs which are not coated with ribosomes, its role is to synthesise and produce lipids in a cell.
Golgi Apparatus/Complex
It’s role is to sort, package and modify proteins to ready them for exportation out of the cell or for use in the cell. Protein filled vesicles often fuse in or out of the complex.
Lysosome
A membrane bound vesicle that contains digestive enzymes, its role is to break down cell waste and toxins.
Mitochondria
The site of anaerobic cellular respiration, which produces the chemical of ATP. This ATP powers and energises the cell, the mitochondria also has its own ribosomes and DNA. It highly folded on the inside and is surrounded by a second membrane.
Chloroplast
double membrane-bound organelle which contains flattened fluid sacs which are the site of photosynthesis. also contains its own ribosomes and DNA.
Vaculole
A membrane bound sac that is used for water and solute storage, while also giving structure to plant cells.
plasma membrane
a semi-permeable membrane barrier between intracellular and extracellular environments. is is made up of phospholipids and has many molecules embedded in it.
Cell wall
A strong border on the outside of the plasma membrane and it provides strength and structure to the plant, bacteria and fungal cells.
