Types of Cells
Your body is composed of trillions and trillions of cells. Cells make up larger things in the body,
like tissues, organs, and entire organ systems. There are two main types of cells, prokaryotic
and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are a type of cell that does not have a defined nucleus
or other membrane-bound organelles. Prokaryotic cells make up prokaryotic organisms, such as
bacteria. Although small, prokaryotes make up much of Earth's living things.
Eukaryotic cells are cells that have a defined, central nucleus and membrane-bound
organelles. These cells are more complex and make up more complex organisms, such as plants
and animals. Even you are composed of eukaryotic cells! Eukaryotic cells are classified as either
plant or animal cells. Both plant and animal cells contain organelles that are responsible for
ensuring the cell is able to perform properly. Plant and animal cells have similar, as well as
different, organelles that perform specific functions.
Plant and Animal Cells
animal cell
plants cell
Plant cells contain many of the same organelles as animals cells, however, there are some
unique structures that can only be found in either plant or animals cells. These specific
structures help differentiate each cell type and help each cell perform specific functions. Look at
the table to see which structures and organelles plant and animal cells have in common. While
you review these items, see if you can identify them in the diagrams, above.
Structure
Function
Cytoplasm
jelly-like material, found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, that
contains dissolved molecules necessary for the cell to thrive as well as to
help with holding organelles in place.
Cytoskeleton
a network of proteins that criss-cross all around the cell and perform a
multitude of functions, including giving the cell its structure and aiding in
cell division.
Vesicle
small, membrane-bound sacs that help to secure and transport materials
throughout the cells.
Nucleus
a large organelle near the center of the cell, which houses genetic
material used in cell division.
Nucleolus
a small region located in the cell's nucleus, that aids in the production
and assembly of ribosomes.
Rough Endoplasmic
Reticulum
part of the endoplasmic reticulum whose surface is studded with
ribosomes. Its main function is protein synthesis, folding, and
distribution.
Ribosome
small organelles that work to link amino acids together to form proteins
Centrosome
a small region of the cell that produces microtubules, and produces
centrioles in animal cells.
Smooth
Endoplasmic
Reticulum
responsible for many metabolic processes, including synthesis of lipids,
phospholipids, and steroids.
Cell Membrane
a membrane that surrounds the cells, separating and protecting the cell
from its outside environment.
Golgi Apparatus
processes and packages proteins and lipid molecules into vesicles that
can be transported in the cell.
Mitochondrion
a bean-shaped organelle that supplies the cell with energy. It is
sometimes dubbed 'the powerhouse of the cell'.
Vacuole
a fluid-filled sac that stores important materials for the cell, such as
molecules, ions, and enzymes.