Understanding Cells: Animal, Plant, and Bacterial Cells

Introduction to Cells

• Cells are the basic building blocks of life.
• Smallest unit of life that can replicate independently.
• Eukaryotic Cells: Animal and plant cells, part of multicellular organisms.
• Prokaryotic Cells: Bacterial cells, often single-cell organisms.
• Cells can reproduce by cell division.

Animal vs. Plant Cells

Common Structures in Animal and Plant Cells

• Cell Membrane: Controls what substances enter and leave the cell.
• Nucleus: Contains DNA, controls cell activities.
• Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance where chemical reactions occur.
• Mitochondria: Provide energy through aerobic respiration (breakdown of glucose).
• Ribosomes: Sites of protein synthesis.

Unique Features of Plant Cells

• Cell Wall: Rigid structure made of cellulose providing support and structure.
• Permanent Vacuole: Contains cell sap (mixture of sugars, salts, water) for cell use.
• Chloroplasts: Site of photosynthesis, contain chlorophyll to absorb light energy.

Bacterial Cells (Prokaryotic)

• Single-celled organisms (unicellular).
• Cell Membrane and Wall: Present but without cellulose.
• Ribosomes and Cytoplasm: Present, no need for mitochondria or chloroplasts.
• Genetic Material: Single circular strand of DNA in cytoplasm (also known as circular chromosome or nucleoid).
• Plasmids: Additional small rings of DNA, may carry beneficial genes like antibiotic resistance.
• Flagella: Thread-like structures for movement.

Conclusion

• Understanding cellular structures aids in recognizing similarities and differences in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
• Additional resources available for further learning on science and mathematics.