🧬

Animal and Plant Cells Overview

May 14, 2025

Animal & Plant Cells: Similarities & Differences

Introduction

  • The study of cell structure and function is a fundamental part of biology.
  • Understanding the similarities and differences between animal and plant cells is essential for Edexcel IGCSE Biology.

Animal Cells

  • Key Subcellular Structures:
    • Nucleus: Contains genetic material.
    • Cell Membrane: Regulates what enters and leaves the cell.
    • Mitochondria: Site of aerobic respiration.
    • Ribosomes: Site of protein synthesis.
    • Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance where chemical reactions occur.
  • Microscopy:
    • Certain cellular structures are visible only under an electron microscope.

Plant Cells

  • Additional Structures (compared to animal cells):
    • Cell Wall: Made of cellulose, provides shape and protection.
    • Permanent Vacuole: Filled with cell sap, maintains turgidity by pushing cytoplasm against the cell wall.
    • Chloroplasts: Present in leaf and stem cells, site of photosynthesis.
  • Microscopy:
    • Chloroplasts indicate cells found in leaves.

Similarities & Differences Table

StructureAnimal CellPlant Cell
NucleusYesYes
CytoplasmYesYes
Cell MembraneYesYes
Cell WallNoYes
MitochondriaYesYes
ChloroplastsNoYes
RibosomesYesYes
VacuoleSmall & TemporaryLarge & Permanent

Examiner Tips

  • Be able to recognize, draw, and interpret images of cells.
  • Practice drawing and labeling both animal and plant cells as part of your revision.

Additional Resources

  • Study Tools Available: Revision notes, exam questions, flashcards, mock exams, and past papers.

Author

  • Lra Marie McIvor: Expert in Biology, Psychology & Sociology. Graduated from Oxford University, focusing on Biological Sciences.