Class Notes – Biology
Date: May 13, 2025
Topic: Cell Structure and Function
Two Main Cell Types:
1. Prokaryotic Cells
○ No nucleus
○ Simple structure (ex: bacteria)
○ DNA floats freely in cytoplasm
○ No membrane-bound organelles
2. Eukaryotic Cells
○ Have a nucleus
○ More complex (ex: plant & animal cells)
○ DNA inside nucleus
○ Have membrane-bound organelles
Cell Organelles & Functions:
Organelle Function
Nucleus Contains DNA, controls cell activities
Mitochondria "Powerhouse" – produces energy (ATP)
through respiration
Ribosomes Make proteins
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
●
Rough ER: has ribosomes, processes proteins
● Smooth ER: makes lipids, detoxifies
| Golgi Apparatus | Packages and ships proteins and lipids |
| Lysosomes | Break down waste and old cell parts |
| Chloroplasts (plant cells only) | Photosynthesis – converts sunlight to energy |
| Cell Wall (plants) | Rigid outer layer – support & protection |
| Cell Membrane | Controls what enters/leaves the cell |
| Cytoplasm | Jelly-like substance that holds organelles |
| Vacuole | Stores water, nutrients, and waste |
Differences: Plant vs. Animal Cells
Feature Plant Cells Animal Cells
Cell wall Yes No
Chloroplasts Yes No
Shape Rectangular Round/Irregular
Vacuole Large, central Small, scattered
Microscope Notes:
● Total magnification = eyepiece × objective lens
● Always start with low power when focusing
● Use fine adjustment knob for detailed focus on high power