Ever wondered what makes you different from a bacterium? It... Show more
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
6
1
a๐ฉท
30/11/2025
Biology
cells
194
โข
30 Nov 2025
โข
Understanding Cells: AQA Combined Science Foundation Notes
a๐ฉท
@pugloverrrrx
Cell Types and Animal Cells
There are two main types of cells you need to know about: eukaryotic and prokaryotic. Think of eukaryotic cells as the fancy, complex ones - that's what you're made of! All animal and plant cells are eukaryotic.
Prokaryotic cells are much simpler and smaller. Bacteria are the perfect example of prokaryotic cells, and they're everywhere around us.
Animal cells have several key parts that work like a well-organised team. The nucleus acts like the control centre, containing all the genetic material that tells the cell what to do. The mitochondria are like tiny power stations where aerobic respiration happens - this process transfers the energy your cells need to function.
You'll also find ribosomes scattered throughout animal cells. These are the protein factories where all the proteins your body needs get made. The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance where most chemical reactions take place, whilst the cell membrane acts like a selective bouncer, controlling what enters and leaves the cell.
Quick Tip: Remember that animal cells don't have cell walls - that's what makes them flexible enough for you to move around!
Plant Cells and Bacterial Cells
Plant cells have everything animal cells have, plus some extra bits that make them special. The cell wall made of cellulose acts like armour, supporting and strengthening the plant. The permanent vacuole stores cell sap and helps keep the plant upright.
Most importantly, plant cells contain chloroplasts - these green structures are where photosynthesis happens. This amazing process allows plants to make their own food using sunlight, which is why they don't need to hunt for dinner like animals do!
Bacterial cells are completely different beasts. They're prokaryotic, which means they don't have a proper nucleus. Instead, they have a single loop of DNA floating freely in the cytoplasm. They also contain plasmids - small rings of extra DNA that can be really useful in genetic engineering.
When you need to estimate the area of cellular structures like mitochondria, treat them like regular shapes. For example, if a mitochondrion looks rectangular and measures 10 ฮผm by 1 ฮผm, simply multiply: 10 ร 1 = 10 ฮผmยฒ. It's that straightforward!
Remember: Bacterial cells are prokaryotic (no true nucleus), whilst plant and animal cells are eukaryotic (proper nucleus present).
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Mitochondria
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Cells: AQA Combined Science Foundation Notes
a๐ฉท
@pugloverrrrx
Ever wondered what makes you different from a bacterium? It all comes down to cells - the tiny building blocks that make up every living thing. Understanding the different types of cells and their parts is crucial for grasping how... Show more
Cell Types and Animal Cells
There are two main types of cells you need to know about: eukaryotic and prokaryotic. Think of eukaryotic cells as the fancy, complex ones - that's what you're made of! All animal and plant cells are eukaryotic.
Prokaryotic cells are much simpler and smaller. Bacteria are the perfect example of prokaryotic cells, and they're everywhere around us.
Animal cells have several key parts that work like a well-organised team. The nucleus acts like the control centre, containing all the genetic material that tells the cell what to do. The mitochondria are like tiny power stations where aerobic respiration happens - this process transfers the energy your cells need to function.
You'll also find ribosomes scattered throughout animal cells. These are the protein factories where all the proteins your body needs get made. The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance where most chemical reactions take place, whilst the cell membrane acts like a selective bouncer, controlling what enters and leaves the cell.
Quick Tip: Remember that animal cells don't have cell walls - that's what makes them flexible enough for you to move around!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Plant Cells and Bacterial Cells
Plant cells have everything animal cells have, plus some extra bits that make them special. The cell wall made of cellulose acts like armour, supporting and strengthening the plant. The permanent vacuole stores cell sap and helps keep the plant upright.
Most importantly, plant cells contain chloroplasts - these green structures are where photosynthesis happens. This amazing process allows plants to make their own food using sunlight, which is why they don't need to hunt for dinner like animals do!
Bacterial cells are completely different beasts. They're prokaryotic, which means they don't have a proper nucleus. Instead, they have a single loop of DNA floating freely in the cytoplasm. They also contain plasmids - small rings of extra DNA that can be really useful in genetic engineering.
When you need to estimate the area of cellular structures like mitochondria, treat them like regular shapes. For example, if a mitochondrion looks rectangular and measures 10 ฮผm by 1 ฮผm, simply multiply: 10 ร 1 = 10 ฮผmยฒ. It's that straightforward!
Remember: Bacterial cells are prokaryotic (no true nucleus), whilst plant and animal cells are eukaryotic (proper nucleus present).
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
6
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: โ 50+ Practice Questions โ Interactive Flashcards โ Full Mock Exam โ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Cell Type Comparison
Explore the fundamental differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including their structure, size, genetic material, and methods of division. This summary provides a clear comparison of bacterial cells and those of animals, plants, and fungi, highlighting key characteristics essential for understanding cell biology.
Biology11
Cell Biology Essentials
Explore the fundamental concepts of cell biology, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, specialized cell functions, and key processes like osmosis and mitosis. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for Paper 1 revision, focusing on cell structure, differentiation, and transport mechanisms. Ideal for students preparing for biology exams.
Biology11
Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic Cells
Explore the key differences and similarities between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including their structures, organelles, and functions. This summary highlights essential concepts such as cell membranes, nuclei, and organelle presence, making it a valuable resource for understanding cellular biology.
Biology8
Biology - cells
Eukaryotes and prokaryotes
Biology11
Types of Human Cells
Explore the various types of human cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, stem cells, and their functions. This summary covers key concepts such as eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, their roles in the body, and the significance of stem cell research. Ideal for biology students seeking to understand cellular structure and functions.
Biology10
Cellular Biology Essentials
Explore the fundamental concepts of cellular biology, focusing on the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. This summary covers key structures such as the nucleus, cytoplasm, mitochondria, ribosomes, and chloroplasts, along with their functions in animal and plant cells. Ideal for students preparing for biology exams.
Biology11
Most popular content: Mitochondria
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user