Biology· 5 min read
Cell Structure and Function (Animal vs Plant Cells)
Cells are the basic units of life. Inside each one, specialised parts called organelles each do a job. Here are the main ones and how animal and plant cells differ.
Key parts and their jobs
Most cells share these core organelles.
- •Nucleus: the control centre; holds DNA.
- •Cytoplasm: jelly-like fluid where reactions happen.
- •Cell membrane: controls what enters and leaves.
- •Mitochondria: release energy through respiration.
- •Ribosomes: build proteins.
Plant cells have extras
Plant cells contain everything above plus three features animal cells lack.
- •Cell wall: a rigid outer layer for support.
- •Chloroplasts: where photosynthesis happens.
- •Permanent vacuole: a large sac that keeps the cell firm.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between animal and plant cells?
Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large permanent vacuole; animal cells do not.
What does the nucleus do?
It controls the cell's activities and stores genetic information (DNA).