Plasma Membranes & Organelles

Question 1

What are organelles?

Answer 1

Structures within the cell that are required for normal functioning. There are 2 types:

1. Membranous
2. Non membranous

Question 2

What is the nucleus?

Answer 2

The control Centre, located in the middle of the cell. A cell can’t reproduce without it.

Question 3

What are the 2 components of the nucleus?

Answer 3

1. Nuclear membrane
   Two membranes that surround the nucleus and provide protection. They have ‘pores’, which allow for transport of information into the cell.
2. Nucleolus
   Controls genetic function. Composed of DNA, it is essential for ribosome production, which is needed for protein production.

Question 4

What is the mitochondria and what is it’s main function?

Answer 4

The ‘powerhouse’ of the cell, essential for ATP production. It takes nutrients from the cell, breaks it down, and turns it to energy.

Question 5

Why are lysosomes so important?

Answer 5

They act as the ‘digestive system’ for the cell, eliminating potentially dangerous substances and old organelles. They use an acidic environment to do this.

Question 6

How are peroxisomes different to lysosomes?

Answer 6

They produce hydrogen peroxide to protect the cell, and only break down amino acids.

Question 7

What is the cytoplasm?

Answer 7

The ICF; storage unit for carbs, fat and secretory vesicles.