Lecture Notes: Eukaryotic Cells with Mr. Ik

Introduction

• Focus: Eukaryotic cells, a Year 12 topic.
• Aim: Describe the structure and function of ten key organelles.
• Suggested Study Methods:
  • Create a table with organelles, structure, and function.
  • Make flashcards for each organelle.

Key Organelles in Animal Cells

1. Cell Membrane

   • Single layer (appears as two layers)
   • Function: Encloses the cell, controls what enters and exits.

2. Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

   • Structure: Contains ribosomes on the surface.
   • Function: Site of protein synthesis.

3. Golgi Apparatus

   • Structure: Slightly curved membranes.
   • Function: Processes, packages, and modifies proteins.

4. Cytoplasm

   • Gel-like substance where organelles are embedded.

5. Lysosomes

   • Small vesicles containing digestive enzymes.
   • Function: Break down pathogens and dead cells.

6. Ribosomes

   • Structure: Two subunits made of proteins and rRNA.
   • Function: Protein synthesis.

7. Centriole (not covered in detail)

8. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

   • Structure: Folded membranes without ribosomes.
   • Function: Synthesis and storage of lipids and carbohydrates.

9. Mitochondria

   • Double membrane, inner folds (cristae)
   • Function: Site of aerobic respiration, ATP production.

Key Organelles in Plant Cells

1. Nucleus

   • Structure: Nuclear envelope with pores, nucleoplasm, nucleolus.
   • Function: DNA replication, transcription (mRNA creation).

2. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

   • See animal cells description.

3. Ribosomes

   • See animal cells description.

4. Nucleus

   • See animal cells description for detailed structure.

5. Vacuole

   • Structure: Fluid-filled, single membrane (tonoplast).
   • Function: Provides structural support, stores nutrients, pigments.

6. Chloroplasts

   • Double membrane, contains thylakoid membranes (grana).
   • Function: Site of photosynthesis.

7. Cell Wall

   • Made of cellulose in plants, chitin in fungi.
   • Function: Provides structural strength.

8. Plasma Membrane

   • Phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
   • Function: Regulates what enters and exits the cell.

Study Tools

• Practice: Identify organelles in diagrams.
• Resources: Miss Esther’s website for question booklets.
• Further Study: Videos and resources for revision.

Conclusion

• Understanding the structure and function of each organelle is crucial for mastering the topic of eukaryotic cells.
• Utilize various study methods like flashcards and practice questions to reinforce learning.