Term | Definition |
Cells | The basic unit of structure and function in all living things |
Organelles | Tiny structures inside a cell that carry out specific functions |
Nucleus | The information center. The "brain" of the cell, Contains the chromatin |
Chromatin | Material in cells that contains DNA and carries genetic information, It directs the function of a cell |
Nuclear membrane | It surround and protects the nucleus |
Nucleolus | Found inside the nucleus and makes ribosomes |
Ribosomes | The site where the proteins are made |
Golgi body / Golgi apparatus | The cells "mail room" they receive proteins and package them and distribute them to other parts of the cell |
Endoplasmic Reticulum | Passageways that carry protein and other materials from one part of the cell to another |
Mitochondria | Energy suppliers of the cell, they release energy stored in food, and cells that need more energy have more mitochondria |
Lysosomes | Small round structures that contain chemicals to break down food and waste, it's known as the recycling center of the cell and they "clean" the cell |
Vacuoles | The storage rooms of the cell, mostly contain water and foods and is very large in plants |
Cell Membrane/ Plasma Membrane | A protective barrier that surrounds a cell and regulates what substances enter and leave the cell |
Cytoplasm | A gel-like substance found between the nucleus and cell membrane |
Cell Wall (only in PLANTS) | It is like the "skeleton" and is made up on nonliving material called the cellulose, it supports and protects the cell |
Chloroplast (only in PLANTS) | This is where photosynthesis happens, they contain a green pigment called chlorophyll |
Chlorophyll | Captures sunlight energy and uses it to make carbohydrates (food) for the cell |
Vesicle | fluid filled sac that forms during exocytosis (secretion), endosytosis (uptake), or transport of materials within the cytoplasm |
Cytoskeleton | Network of protein filaments in some cells-helps maintain shape; also involved in cell movement |