Cell Structures

• Eukaryotic cells have subcellular structures contained within their cytoplasm

• Each cellular structure carries out a particular function
• Organelles are subcellular ‘compartments’ where specific processes take place
within the cell
• Within the cytoplasm, the following organelles are visible in almost all cells (except
prokaryotes) when looking at a higher magnification
o Mitochondria (singular: mitochondrion) are organelles found throughout the
cytoplasm and are the site of respiration
o Ribosomes are tiny structures that can be free within the cytoplasm or
attached to a system of membranes within the cell known as the
Endoplasmic Reticulum
o The endoplasmic reticulum studded with ribosomes looks rough under the
microscope; this gives rise to its name of Rough Endoplasmic
Reticulum (often shortened to R.E.R.)
o Vesicles can also be seen using a higher magnification - these are small
circular structures found moving throughout the cytoplasm

Cell Structures & Functions

Cellular Structures & Functions Table
Plant & Animal Cells

• The main subcellular structures in animal cells are:

o The nucleus: contains genetic material
o Cell membranes: controls what enters and leaves the cell
o Mitochondria: site of aerobic respiration
o Ribosomes: site of protein synthesis
o Cytoplasm: chemical reactions take place in this jelly-like substance

Some cellular structures can only be seen when viewed with an electron microscope

• In addition to the subcellular parts found in animal cells, plant cells have:
o A cell wall made of cellulose: gives the cell shape and protection
o A permanent vacuole filled with cell sap: pushes the cytoplasm against the
cell wall, keeping the cell turgid
o Plant cells found in the leaf and stem may also contain chloroplasts: the site
of photosynthesis
The plant cell shown above contains chloroplasts, so it would be found in the leaves
of a plant

Plant Cell Structure & Functions Table

Exam Tip
You need to be able to recognise, draw and interpret images of cells, so practice drawing
and labelling animal and plant cells as part of your revision.