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2. Cell: The Unit of Life

The cell serves as the fundamental unit of life, with all organisms made of at least one cell. Key concepts explored include the cell theory, types of cells, and the structures found within cells. Significant distinctions between plant and animal cells highlight the presence of unique organelles that serve specialized functions.

Sections

  • 2

    Cell: The Unit Of Life

    Cells are the fundamental units of life, forming the structure of all living organisms, and they can be classified as unicellular or multicellular based on their composition.

    Learning Practice

  • 2.1

    Introduction

    The cell is the foundational unit of life, with all organisms made of cells, as described by historical figures including Robert Hooke and later by the cell theory.

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  • 2.2

    Cell Theory

    Cell theory states that all living organisms are made up of cells, the basic unit of life, and that all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

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  • 2.3

    Types Of Organisms Based On Cell Number

    Organisms can be classified into unicellular or multicellular based on the number of cells they are composed of.

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  • 2.4

    Types Of Cells

    This section covers the two primary types of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic, outlining their key characteristics.

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  • 2.4.1

    Prokaryotic Cells

    Prokaryotic cells are simple, unicellular organisms without a true nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

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  • 2.4.2

    Eukaryotic Cells

    Eukaryotic cells are complex cells containing a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

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  • 2.5

    Structure Of A Generalized Cell

    This section outlines the various components that make up a generalized cell and their respective functions.

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  • 2.5.1

    Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane)

    The plasma membrane is a semi-permeable barrier that surrounds the cell, controlling the movement of substances in and out.

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  • 2.5.2

    Cytoplasm

    Cytoplasm is the gel-like substance within a cell that contains organelles and is the site for most metabolic processes.

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  • 2.5.3

    Nucleus

    The nucleus is a vital cellular organelle that controls cell functions and houses genetic material.

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  • 2.5.4

    Cell Wall (Only In Plant Cells)

    The cell wall is a rigid structure found only in plant cells that provides shape and protection.

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  • 2.5.5

    Vacuoles

    Vacuoles are fluid-filled spaces within cells that are primarily used for storage, with variations in size and prevalence between plant and animal cells.

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  • 2.5.6

    Plastids (Only In Plant Cells)

    Plastids are vital organelles found only in plant cells, primarily involved in photosynthesis, storage, and pigment synthesis.

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  • 2.5.7

    Mitochondria

    Mitochondria are crucial organelles in eukaryotic cells responsible for energy production through cellular respiration.

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  • 2.5.8

    Endoplasmic Reticulum (Er)

    The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) is a vital organelle in eukaryotic cells, involved in the synthesis of proteins and lipids.

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  • 2.5.9

    Golgi Apparatus

    The Golgi apparatus is crucial for packaging and transporting proteins within and outside the cell.

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  • 2.5.10

    Ribosomes

    Ribosomes are crucial cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis in cells.

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  • 2.5.11

    Lysosomes

    Lysosomes are specialized organelles that contain digestive enzymes which facilitate intracellular digestion.

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  • 2.5.12

    Centrosome (Only In Animal Cells)

    The centrosome is an organelle found only in animal cells, playing a crucial role in cell division.

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  • 2.6

    Differences Between Plant Cell And Animal Cell

    This section outlines the key differences between plant and animal cells, focusing on structural variations.

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  • 2.7

    Functions Of Cell Organelles

    This section outlines the primary functions of major cell organelles, emphasizing their roles in cellular processes.

    Learning Practice

References

b9-2.pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • All living organisms are co...
  • Cells are classified into p...
  • Plant and animal cells diff...

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