Cells

What are cells?

 Cells are the smallest structural and functional unit of an organism, which is
typically microscopic and consists of cytoplasm and the positively charged central
core of an atom, consisting of protons and neutrons and containing nearly all its
mass. nucleus enclosed in a membrane.

• biology
a dense organelle present in most eukaryotic cells, typically a single rounded structure
bounded by a double membrane, containing the genetic material.

- What is a eukaryotic cell?

an organism consisting of a cell or cells in which the genetic material is DNA in
the form of chromosomes contained within a distinct nucleus. Eukaryotes include
all living organisms other than the eubacteria and archaea. Compare with 
prokaryote.
What is a prokaryotic cell?

 Prokaryote Definition. Prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that consist of a

single prokaryotic cell. Prokaryotic cells are simple cells that do not have a
true nucleus or other cell organelles. Bacteria and Archaea are the two domains
of life that are prokaryotes
They are called “prokaryotes.” The prokaryotic cell has several elements that allow it to
function as a living organism. First, prokaryotes are covered in a cell membrane. This
membrane allows them to create a specific environment within the cytosol that allows
biochemical reactions to take place.

Is bacteria eukaryotic or prokaryotic?

Eukaryotes and prokaryotes Bacteria are amongst the simplest of organisms – they are made
of single cells. Their cell structure is simpler than the cells of animals, plants and fungi. Cells
of bacteria are called prokaryotic cells.
Difference and similarities
between plant and animal cells
Animal Cell Plant Cell
Domain Eukarya Eukarya
Cell Wall No Yes (made of cellulose)

Either none or a few very One very large also called the
Vacuole
small throughout the cell “central vacuole”

Mobility Can be mobile and fluid Not mobile or fluid

Nucleus Yes Yes
Endoplasmic Reticulum Yes Yes
Chloroplasts No Yes
Mitochondria Yes Yes
Golgi Apparatus Yes Yes
- Name some structures found in
cells and their functions
 These common structures include a cell membrane, DNA, ribosomes, and
cytoplasm. Cells have a plasma membrane, cell membrane, or cell wall that
surrounds the cell and acts as their skin. It makes up the boundary between the
cell and their environment and controls what can move in and out of the cell.