Frequently Asked Questions - Cell Structure and Functions
A cell is the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. It is the smallest unit that can perform all the processes necessary for life.
The two main types of cells are prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus.
The cell membrane regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. It also provides protection and maintains the cell's shape.
The nucleus contains the cell's genetic material (DNA) and controls the cell's activities, including growth, reproduction, and metabolism.
Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell, producing energy through cellular respiration. They are involved in generating ATP.
Chloroplasts are found in plant cells and are responsible for photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into chemical energy.
The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of membranes involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism. It can be rough or smooth.
The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport to their final destinations within or outside the cell.
Lysosomes contain enzymes that break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign substances through a process called autophagy.
The cytoskeleton provides structural support to the cell, helps in cell movement, and aids in the transport of organelles and materials within the cell.