Plant Cell Structure and Function
Plant cells have several specialized structures that distinguish them from animal cells. The cell wall, made of cellulose, provides strength and support. A large central vacuole stores water and solutes, helping maintain cell shape. Chloroplasts are crucial for photosynthesis, absorbing light energy to produce glucose.
Highlight: Plant cells contain unique structures like cell walls, large vacuoles, and chloroplasts that are not found in animal cells.
Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells differ significantly in their structure and complexity. Eukaryotic cells, found in plants and animals, have a nucleus containing DNA and various organelles. Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, are simpler with DNA floating freely in the cytoplasm.
Vocabulary: Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells lack these features.
The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell, while mitochondria carry out aerobic respiration to release energy. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
Example: Plant cells, animal cells, and yeast are examples of eukaryotic cells, while bacterial cells are prokaryotic.