The animal cell nucleus is a vital organelle that contains DNA

and serves as the cell's control center. A double membrane

surrounds it called the nuclear envelope, with nuclear pores for
molecule movement. Inside, there's nucleoplasm with
chromatin, nucleoli, and the nucleoplasmic reticulum. The
nucleus regulates cell activities, and protein synthesis, and
carries hereditary information for cell growth and reproduction.

The animal cell membrane, or the plasma membrane, is a thin,

flexible barrier that surrounds and encloses the cell. It is
composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
The cell membrane regulates the passage of substances in and
out of the cell, maintains cell shape, and protects the cell from
its external environment. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in
cell communication and signal transduction.

Animal cell cytoplasm is a gel-like substance filled with

organelles. It supports cell structure and facilitates cellular
processes such as energy production and biochemical reactions.

Animal cell ribosomes are small, granular structures present in

the cytoplasm. They can also be found attached to the
endoplasmic reticulum. Ribosomes are responsible for protein
synthesis, where they read the messenger RNA (mRNA) code
and link amino acids to form proteins. Composed of ribosomal
RNA (rRNA) and proteins, ribosomes play a crucial role in cell
growth, repair, and maintaining cellular functions.
The animal cell Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) is a network of
membrane-bound tubules and sacs located in the cytoplasm.
There are two types of ER: rough ER and smooth ER. Rough
ER has ribosomes attached to its surface and is involved in
protein synthesis and modification. Smooth ER lacks ribosomes
and is responsible for lipid metabolism, detoxification of drugs,
and storing calcium ions. The ER plays a crucial role in the
production and transport of proteins and lipids, contributing to
cell structure and function.

The Golgi apparatus is like a cell's packaging and distribution

center. It receives proteins and lipids from other parts of the cell
and modifies them to be used for various tasks. Then, it
packages them into tiny vesicles and sends them to the right
places inside or outside the cell. It helps the cell function
correctly and communicates with its surroundings.

Lysosomes are small sac-like organelles found in animal cells.

They contain enzymes that help break down and digest waste
materials, old cell components, and foreign substances like
bacteria and viruses. This process is called autophagy and
phagocytosis. Lysosomes play a crucial role in cellular waste
disposal and recycling, helping to maintain the cell's health and
balance. They act as the cell's recycling centers, ensuring
efficient removal of unwanted materials and proper cellular
maintenance.
Mitochondria is the powerhouse of a cell and are like tiny
energy factories inside animal cells. They convert food nutrients
into a form of energy called ATP that the cell can use. They have
their own DNA and can multiply themselves when needed.
Because of mitochondria, animal cells can do many important
tasks and stay alive and active.

Centrioles are tiny structures found in animal cells, often in

pairs. They help with cell division by creating special fibers that
move the cell's genetic material during the process. These
structures are made of tiny tubes and are located near the cell's
center. They also play a role in supporting the cell's shape and
movement. While not all animal cells have centrioles, they are
essential for dividing cells and maintaining their structure in
cells that have them.

The cytoskeleton is like the cell's internal scaffold made of

proteins. It helps the cell keep its shape and structure. There are
three types of parts: microtubules for cell division and moving
things around, microfilaments for cell movement, and
intermediate filaments for cell strength. All together, the
cytoskeleton supports the cell and allows it to move and function
properly.

Cilia and flagella are whip-like structures found in some animal

cells. Cilia are shorter and more numerous, while flagella are
longer and usually found singly or in pairs. They both serve the
same purpose: to help the cell move. Cilia move in a coordinated
waving motion, while flagella propel the cell with a whipping
action. These structures play important roles in moving fluids
along surfaces, such as in the respiratory tract.

Cell Wall:
- Protective outer layer in plant cells, fungi, bacteria, and some
protists.
- Three layers: primary, secondary, and middle lamella.
- Primary Cell Wall: Thin and flexible, made of cellulose,
hemicellulose, and pectin.
- Secondary Cell Wall: Thicker and rigid, contains cellulose,
lignin, and more hemicelluloses.
- Middle Lamella: Thin layer between adjacent plant cells, sticks
them together with pectin.

Vacuole:
- Large water-filled sac in plant cells.
- Stores nutrients, waste, and other substances.
- Helps maintain cell structure and support.

Plastids:
- Found in plant cells and some algae.
- Three types:
1. Chloroplasts: Capture sunlight for food production
(photosynthesis).
 - Thylakoids: Flat membrane sacs inside chloroplasts.
- Grana: Stacks of thylakoids containing pigments for light
capture.
- Stroma: Gel-like substance around grana where
photosynthesis happens.
2. Chromoplasts: Provide colors in fruits and flowers.
3. Leucoplasts: Store nutrients like starch, oils, and proteins.