2.1.1

Cells

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Cell Components

Cells of living organisms contain organelles - small structures in the cytoplasm where chemical reactions happen (e.g. ribosomes, mitochondria, chloroplasts). The cells of all living organisms contain:

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Cell membrane

  • The cell membrane separates the interior (inside) of the cell from the environment outside.
  • It is selectively permeable (it can control substances moving in and out of the cell).
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Cytoplasm

  • Cytoplasm is a jelly-like fluid that fills the cell.
  • It is where most of the cell’s chemical reactions take place.
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DNA

  • DNA is the molecule that makes up the genetic material of cells.
  • It contains the instructions for making cells and for all the cell's functions.
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Ribosomes

  • Ribosomes are organelles that are responsible for synthesising (making) proteins.
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Enzymes

  • Enzymes are known as biological catalysts; they speed up lots of the reactions that happen in cells, such as those involved in respiration.

Jump to other topics

1The Nature & Variety of Living Organisms

2Structure & Functions in Living Organisms

3Organism Functions

3.1Respiration

3.2Gas Exchange

3.3Transport

3.4Excretion

3.5Coordination & Response

4Reproduction & Inheritance

5Ecology

6Biological Resources

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