Class 9 Science - Notes
Chapter: Cell - The Basic Unit of Life
Definition of Cell
The cell is the structural and functional unit of life. All living organisms are made up of one or more
cells.
Discovery of Cell
Robert Hooke discovered cells in 1665 while observing a thin slice of cork under a primitive
microscope.
Cell Theory
Proposed by Schleiden and Schwann, later modified by Rudolf Virchow. The main postulates are:
1. All living organisms are made up of cells. 2. The cell is the basic unit of life. 3. All cells arise from
pre-existing cells.
Types of Organisms
1. Unicellular organisms – made of a single cell (e.g., Amoeba, Paramecium). 2. Multicellular
organisms – made of many cells (e.g., Humans, Plants).
Cell Structure
Every cell has three main parts: 1. Cell membrane: Outer covering, selectively permeable. 2.
Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance containing organelles. 3. Nucleus: Control center of the cell
containing DNA.
Cell Organelles
Important cell organelles and their functions: • Mitochondria – Powerhouse of the cell, produces
energy. • Ribosomes – Site of protein synthesis. • Endoplasmic Reticulum – Transport system,
rough ER has ribosomes, smooth ER synthesizes lipids. • Golgi apparatus – Packaging and
secretion. • Lysosomes – Digestive bags, break down waste. • Plastids (in plants) – Chloroplasts for
photosynthesis, chromoplasts for color, leucoplasts for storage. • Vacuoles – Storage sacs for food,
water, and waste.
Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells
1. Plant cells have cell walls; animal cells do not. 2. Plant cells have plastids; animal cells lack
plastids. 3. Plant cells have a large central vacuole; animal cells have small or no vacuoles.
Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
Prokaryotic cells: Simple, without a well-defined nucleus (e.g., Bacteria). Eukaryotic cells: Complex,
with a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., Plants, Animals).
Summary
• Cell is the basic unit of life. • Cells can be prokaryotic or eukaryotic. • Plant and animal cells have
similarities and differences. • Organelles perform specific functions necessary for survival.