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Important to know for IGCSE Biology is.....
Cell Structure
Each organelle performs a specific function within a cell.
Let's take a look at the functions of cell structures found in both animal and plant cells:
- Cytoplasm
- Liquid substance that contains dissolved nutrients and salts
- Contains enzymes, so many of the chemical reactions happen at the cytoplasm
- Organelles are found in the cytoplasm
- Nucleus
- Contains genetic materials, such as the DNA
- Genetic materials in the nucleus controls the cell's activities
- Enclosed by nuclear membrane
- Ribosome
- The place where protein synthesis occurs
- Mitochondrion
- The place where aerobic respiration occurs
- Provides energy for the cell
- Cell membrane
- Only permeable to some substances and non-permeable to other substances
- Controls what goes in and out of the cell
There are some structures that are found in plant cells but not in animal cells.
You are frequently asked to identify the structures found only in plant cells for IGCSE Biology exams!
Let's take a look at the functions of cell structures found only in plant cells:
- Chloroplast
- Contains chlorophyll, which absorbs light for photosynthesis
- Provides food for the plant to survive through photosynthesis
- Vacuole
- Contains cell sap, which is liquid that stores nutrients
- Takes up biggest space of the cell
- Water inside the vacuole helps the plant cell maintain its turgidity
- Cell wall
- Provides strength and support to the cell
- Increases rigidity of the cell
- Made of cellulose