Plant cells have all the organelles found in animal cells, plus three additional structures:
๐งฑ Cell Wall
- Made of cellulose - provides strength and support
- Prevents plant cells from bursting when they take in water
- Fully permeable to water and dissolved substances
- Gives plant cells their fixed, rigid shape
๐ฟ Chloroplasts
- Site of photosynthesis
- Contain chlorophyll (green pigment)
- Convert light energy into chemical energy (glucose)
- Have their own DNA and ribosomes
๐ง Permanent Vacuole
- Large, fluid-filled space in center of cell
- Surrounded by tonoplast membrane
- Contains cell sap (water + dissolved substances)
- Provides support by pushing against cell wall
This deep dive covers Plant Cell Structure - Additional Organelles within Cell Structure for GCSE Biology. Cell theory, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, animal and plant cell organelles, bacterial cells, specialized cells, and microscopy It is section 3 of 17 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Cell Structure
Which part of the cell contains DNA and controls the cell's activities?
Describe the structure and function of chloroplasts.
Quick recall flashcards
What is the function of ribosomes?
Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis. They translate mRNA into proteins by linking amino acids together.
What is the function of the nucleus?
The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains DNA which controls all cellular activities and heredity.