The Cell

Question 1

Cell

Answer 1

Cells are the basic functional unit of life.

Question 2

Organelle

Answer 2

Is a specialised, membrane-bound compartment within a cell, that has a specific function.

Question 3

Cell membrane

Answer 3

Is the boundary of the cell and controls what enters and leaves the cell. It also maintains the integrity of the cell and holds the contents in.

Question 4

Cytoplasm

Answer 4

The medium in which all chemical reactions occur.

Question 5

Nucleus

Answer 5

Contains the DNA, organised into chromosomes. Usually in a thin, thread-like form called chromatin. The control-centre of the cell and sends chemical signals to all areas of the cell.

Question 6

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

Answer 6

Contains the genetic code for the manufacture of all proteins needed by the organism.

Question 7

Nucleolus

Answer 7

They assemble ribosomes - transported to the cytoplasm.

Question 8

Ribosomes

Answer 8

Made from RNA. Responsible for making the proteins needed by the cell or surrounding cells.

Question 9

Mitochondria

Answer 9

Powerhouses of the cell. Responsible for carrying out major metabolic processes, such as respiration.

Question 10

Lysosomes

Answer 10

Contain enzymes. Responsible for breaking down any cell debris - viruses, bacteria or worn-out organelles.

Question 11

Chloroplasts

Answer 11

Responsible for making food using sunlight, water and CO2. This food is burned or stored.

Question 12

Cell wall

Answer 12

Strong and rigid structure responsible for giving plants their strength and shape. Also acts as a protective layer against pathogens.

Question 13

Middle lamella

Answer 13

The cement that binds cell walls together - maintains structure of the plant.

Question 14

Vacuole

Answer 14

Large, fluid filled sac that takes up most of the plant cell. Has many different functions including:
- Storage of food, water and wastes
- Maintaining the shape of the plant cell
- Isolating harmful substances