Animal Cells
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 1.1.10
Animal Cell
Sub-cellular structures are things found in a cell. An animal cell contains the following sub-cellular structures:
Cell membrane
- The cell membrane separates the interior (inside) of the cell from the environment outside.
- This membrane is partially permeable. This means that it has control over which substances enter and exit the cell.
Nucleus
- The nucleus contains chromosomes (which contain the cell's genetic material).
Ribosomes
- Ribosomes are responsible for synthesising (making) proteins.
Mitochondria
- Mitochondria are where aerobic respiration takes place.
- Aerobic respiration is a process which uses glucose and oxygen to release energy.
Cytoplasm
- Cytoplasm is a jelly-like fluid that fills the cell.
- It is where most of the cell’s chemical reactions take place.
Common types of animal cells
- Skin Cells
- Muscle Cells
- Nerve Cells
- Fat Cells
Test yourself on Animal Cells
Which structures are present in animal cells?
What is an example of a type of animal cell?
Why is the cell membrane described as selectively permeable?
Which sub-cellular structure would be most active in a muscle cell, which needs lots of energy?