Cell Structure: Animal vs Plant Cells
Animal and plant cells share several common structures with specific functions. Both contain a nucleus (controls the cell and holds genetic material), cytoplasm (a gel-like substance where chemical reactions occur), and a cell membrane (regulates what enters and exits the cell).
Plants have some extra structures that animals don't. These include a cell wall made of cellulose for strength and support, chloroplasts where photosynthesis happens, and a permanent vacuole that stores cell sap and helps maintain the cell's rigidity. Both cell types contain mitochondria, the powerhouses where aerobic respiration produces energy.
Prokaryotic cells (like bacteria) have a simpler structure compared to the animal and plant cells, which are eukaryotic. Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound structures, have DNA in a single chromosome, and contain smaller ribosomes. They often have additional features like plasmids (small circular DNA) and flagella for movement.
Did you know? Ribosomes are the cell's protein factories. These tiny structures carry out protein synthesis in both animal and plant cells!
