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16 Jan 2026

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Structure of Eukaryotic Plant Cell | A Level Biology OCR

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Chloe

@chloesneep

Ever wondered what makes plant cells tick? From the powerhouse... Show more

Eukaryotic plant cell
Ribosome
free floating in cytoplasm or attached to
endoplasmic reticulum (rough E.R.), not surrounded
by membrane, Sit

Eukaryotic Plant Cell Structure

Plant cells are like bustling cities with specialised districts, each performing vital functions. The cell wall made of cellulose provides structural support - think of it as the city's protective walls. Meanwhile, plasmodesmata act like tunnels connecting neighbouring cells, allowing communication and transport between them.

The cell-surface membrane controls what enters and exits the cell through its phospholipid bilayer structure. This partially permeable barrier ensures only the right materials get through. Inside, the cytosol serves as the liquid medium where all organelles float - it's basically the cell's internal ocean.

The nucleus is the command centre, containing chromatin and surrounded by a double membrane with pores. These nuclear pores are like security checkpoints, letting mRNA and ribosomes out whilst allowing enzymes and signalling molecules in. The nucleolus inside works as the ribosome factory.

Key Tip: Remember that plant cells have three unique features: cell walls, chloroplasts, and large vacuoles - these distinguish them from animal cells.

Ribosomes handle protein synthesis and can be found floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The rough ER has ribosomes covering its surface, whilst smooth ER lacks ribosomes and focuses on producing lipids, carbohydrates, and steroids.

Chloroplasts are the green powerhouses larger than mitochondria, surrounded by double membranes. Inside, thylakoids stack to form grana structures containing chlorophyll - this is where photosynthesis happens. Mitochondria serve as the cell's energy factories, with their inner membrane folded into cristae containing enzymes for aerobic respiration.

The Golgi apparatus works like a post office, modifying and packaging proteins into vesicles for transport. The cytoskeleton and microtubule network provide structural support and transport highways, moving cell contents using ATP energy. Finally, the large vacuole surrounded by the tonoplast membrane helps maintain cell pressure and stores materials.



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Biology

842

16 Jan 2026

1 page

Structure of Eukaryotic Plant Cell | A Level Biology OCR

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Chloe

@chloesneep

Ever wondered what makes plant cells tick? From the powerhouse mitochondria to the food-making chloroplasts, each tiny component in a plant cell has a crucial job that keeps life going. Understanding these cellular structures is your key to mastering biology.

Eukaryotic plant cell
Ribosome
free floating in cytoplasm or attached to
endoplasmic reticulum (rough E.R.), not surrounded
by membrane, Sit

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Eukaryotic Plant Cell Structure

Plant cells are like bustling cities with specialised districts, each performing vital functions. The cell wall made of cellulose provides structural support - think of it as the city's protective walls. Meanwhile, plasmodesmata act like tunnels connecting neighbouring cells, allowing communication and transport between them.

The cell-surface membrane controls what enters and exits the cell through its phospholipid bilayer structure. This partially permeable barrier ensures only the right materials get through. Inside, the cytosol serves as the liquid medium where all organelles float - it's basically the cell's internal ocean.

The nucleus is the command centre, containing chromatin and surrounded by a double membrane with pores. These nuclear pores are like security checkpoints, letting mRNA and ribosomes out whilst allowing enzymes and signalling molecules in. The nucleolus inside works as the ribosome factory.

Key Tip: Remember that plant cells have three unique features: cell walls, chloroplasts, and large vacuoles - these distinguish them from animal cells.

Ribosomes handle protein synthesis and can be found floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The rough ER has ribosomes covering its surface, whilst smooth ER lacks ribosomes and focuses on producing lipids, carbohydrates, and steroids.

Chloroplasts are the green powerhouses larger than mitochondria, surrounded by double membranes. Inside, thylakoids stack to form grana structures containing chlorophyll - this is where photosynthesis happens. Mitochondria serve as the cell's energy factories, with their inner membrane folded into cristae containing enzymes for aerobic respiration.

The Golgi apparatus works like a post office, modifying and packaging proteins into vesicles for transport. The cytoskeleton and microtubule network provide structural support and transport highways, moving cell contents using ATP energy. Finally, the large vacuole surrounded by the tonoplast membrane helps maintain cell pressure and stores materials.

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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

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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

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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

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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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

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