Science Unit 6 – Structure and Function
of Cells (English Medium)
Cell Discovery and Cell Theory
1665 – Robert Hooke observed a thin slice of cork using a simple microscope that he built
himself. He saw many small box-like compartments and named them “cells”.
1838 – Cell Theory was proposed by Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann and Rudolf
Virchow.
Main points of Cell Theory:
1. The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life.
2. All living organisms are made up of one or more cells.
3. New cells arise only from pre-existing cells.
Main Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells
Animal Cell:
• No cell wall.
• Cytoplasm occupies most of the cell.
• Vacuoles are small and temporary.
• No chloroplasts.
• Nucleus is usually near the center.
Plant Cell:
• Has a cellulose cell wall.
• Large central vacuole pushes the cytoplasm to the sides.
• Has a large permanent vacuole.
• Contains chloroplasts for photosynthesis.
• Nucleus is usually pushed towards the edge by the vacuole.
Main Cell Structures and Their Functions – I
Cell Wall:
• Found only in plant cells.
• Non-living outer covering mainly made of cellulose.
• Provides shape, support and protection.
Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane):
• Outermost covering of animal cells.
• Living, selectively permeable membrane.
• Controls movement of substances into and out of the cell.
Nucleus:
• Main control center of the cell.
• Contains genetic material (chromatin).
• Controls all cell activities and passes hereditary characteristics to the next generation.
Main Cell Structures and Their Functions – II
Mitochondrion:
• Known as the “powerhouse of the cell”.
• Carries out aerobic respiration.
• Releases energy in the form of ATP.
Golgi Apparatus:
• Consists of flattened sacs and vesicles.
• Modifies, packages, stores and secretes substances.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
• Rough ER (RER) – transports proteins.
• Smooth ER (SER) – synthesizes and transports lipids/steroids.
Vacuole:
• Common in plant cells.
• Maintains water balance (turgidity).
• Provides support and storage.