Animal Cells vs. Plant Cells
The Basics
Although all living creatures are made up of cells, animal cells are unique in many ways. For example, unlike plant cells, animal cells do not have chloroplasts, which are organelles that contain chlorophyll and are responsible for photosynthesis. Instead, animal cells rely on food to obtain energy. In addition, animal cells have a cell wall. Unlike plant cells, which have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose, animal cells have a cell membrane. The cell membrane is a flexible barrier that allows nutrients to enter the cell and waste products to exit the cell.
Cell Parts and Functions
Animal cells contain a variety of organelles, each of which has a specific function.
- Nucleus: The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains the cell's genetic material.
- Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the energy centers of the cell. They produce ATP, which is the cell's energy currency.
- Ribosomes: Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis.
- Endoplasmic reticulum: The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of membranes that folds and transports proteins.
- Golgi apparatus: The Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins for secretion from the cell.
- Lysosomes: Lysosomes are small sacs that contain enzymes that break down waste products.
- Vacuoles: Vacuoles are small sacs that store water, food, and other materials.
In addition to these basic organelles, animal cells may also contain specialized organelles, such as cilia and flagella. Cilia and flagella are hair-like structures that help cells move. While plant cells and animal cells may share many of the same organelles, there are subtle yet important differences between the structure and function of these organelles that contribute to the overall function and survival of the cell.
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