1.1.5

Ultrastructure of Eukaryotic Cells 3

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Vacuole

Cell vacuoles are found in plant cell cytoplasm. Cell vacuoles are surrounded by a membrane called the tonoplast.

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Structure of cell vacuoles

  • Plant cells each have a large central vacuole that occupies most of the area of the cell.
  • These vacuoles are surrounded by a membrane called the tonoplast and contain a weak solution of salts and sugars called cell sap.
  • Cell vacuoles are found in the cytoplasm of plant cells but are NOT present in animal cells.
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Function of cell vacuoles

  • The central vacuole allows the cell to remain rigid.
  • When the central vacuole holds more water, the vacuole pushes against the cell wall and pressure is maintained. This stops the plant from wilting.
  • The vacuole also isolates certain chemicals that are unwanted by the rest of the cell.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Structure

2Biological Molecules

3Enzymes

4Cell Membranes & Transport

5The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7Transport in Plants

8Transport in Mammals

9Gas Exchange

10Infectious Diseases

11Immunity

12Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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