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Biology

Dec 12, 2025

71

3 pages

Understanding Cell Organelles

E

Emma Cox @emmacox_yhdd

Dive into the microscopic world of cell organelles, the tiny specialized compartments that keep eukaryotic cells functioning smoothly.... Show more

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

Cell Organelles The Cell's Workforce

Organelles are membrane-bound compartments that perform specific functions in eukaryotic cells. Think of them as different departments in a company, each with its own important job. Without these specialized workers, your cells couldn't function properly.

The nucleus serves as the control center of the cell, containing your DNA (chromatin) wrapped around proteins called histones. It's protected by a double-layered membrane called the nuclear envelope, which has small openings called nuclear pores that allow materials to move in and out. Inside the nucleus sits the nucleolus, which makes ribosomal subunits from special rDNA.

The Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) is a network of channels connected to the nuclear envelope and covered with ribosomes. It collects proteins made by the ribosomes, sometimes modifies them, and packages them into vesicles for transport. These vesicles are like the cell's delivery trucks, transporting materials between organelles by pinching off from one membrane and fusing with another.

Quick Cell Fact Your body contains trillions of cells, and each one might have thousands of organelles working non-stop to keep you healthy!

The Golgi apparatus receives vesicles from the ER and modifies their contents. It then repackages materials into new vesicles headed for their final destinations—some become lysosomes, while others travel to the cell membrane to release their contents outside the cell (exocytosis).

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

More Essential Organelles

Lysosomes function as the cell's recycling centers, containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down worn-out cell parts, large molecules, and wastes. In immune cells like macrophages, lysosomes are particularly important for destroying harmful bacteria and viruses.

The Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) connects to the RER but lacks ribosomes. It manufactures lipids, phospholipids, and steroids, while also helping break down toxins like alcohol—which explains why your liver, with lots of SER, is your body's main detoxifying organ.

Mitochondria, often called the "powerhouse of the cell," are where aerobic cellular respiration occurs, releasing energy from nutrients in the form of ATP. Human cells contain between 500-2000 mitochondria, allowing them to generate energy from different sources like monosaccharides, amino acids, and lipids.

Energy Fact If the mitochondria in your cells suddenly stopped working, you'd run out of energy in seconds! That's how crucial these tiny powerhouses are.

Peroxisomes contain hydrolytic enzymes for various metabolic processes. They break down fatty acids and other compounds for energy production, creating hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a toxic byproduct, which they neutralize using the enzyme catalase.

Chloroplasts are found in plant cells and some protists, containing the green pigment chlorophyll. They're the site of photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide, water, and light into glucose. Vacuoles are large membrane sacks primarily used for storage—plant cells have a large central vacuole for water and nutrients, while smaller specialized vacuoles perform functions like food storage or water regulation in some single-celled organisms.

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

Comparing Animal and Plant Cells

Animal cells and plant cells share many organelles but have important differences. Both have a nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and ribosomes for essential cellular functions.

Animal cells uniquely contain centrioles (important during cell division), often have lysosomes, and may have small vacuoles for temporary storage. Their cell membrane is their outermost boundary, allowing flexibility in shape and movement.

Plant cells have additional structures that animal cells lack. They're surrounded by a rigid cell wall made of cellulose that provides structure and protection. They contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis and usually have a large central vacuole that maintains pressure against the cell wall (turgor pressure).

Amazing Connection The mitochondria in your cells and the chloroplasts in plant cells were once free-living bacteria that formed a mutually beneficial relationship with early cells billions of years ago!

Plant cells also have plasmodesmata, channels that connect neighboring cells and allow direct communication. While animal cells rely primarily on vesicles for transporting materials, these connections allow plant cells to share resources efficiently throughout plant tissues.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

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4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

71

Dec 12, 2025

3 pages

Understanding Cell Organelles

E

Emma Cox

@emmacox_yhdd

Dive into the microscopic world of cell organelles, the tiny specialized compartments that keep eukaryotic cells functioning smoothly. These "little organs" each have unique jobs that work together to keep cells—and by extension, you—alive and thriving.

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

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Cell Organelles: The Cell's Workforce

Organelles are membrane-bound compartments that perform specific functions in eukaryotic cells. Think of them as different departments in a company, each with its own important job. Without these specialized workers, your cells couldn't function properly.

The nucleus serves as the control center of the cell, containing your DNA (chromatin) wrapped around proteins called histones. It's protected by a double-layered membrane called the nuclear envelope, which has small openings called nuclear pores that allow materials to move in and out. Inside the nucleus sits the nucleolus, which makes ribosomal subunits from special rDNA.

The Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) is a network of channels connected to the nuclear envelope and covered with ribosomes. It collects proteins made by the ribosomes, sometimes modifies them, and packages them into vesicles for transport. These vesicles are like the cell's delivery trucks, transporting materials between organelles by pinching off from one membrane and fusing with another.

Quick Cell Fact: Your body contains trillions of cells, and each one might have thousands of organelles working non-stop to keep you healthy!

The Golgi apparatus receives vesicles from the ER and modifies their contents. It then repackages materials into new vesicles headed for their final destinations—some become lysosomes, while others travel to the cell membrane to release their contents outside the cell (exocytosis).

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

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More Essential Organelles

Lysosomes function as the cell's recycling centers, containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down worn-out cell parts, large molecules, and wastes. In immune cells like macrophages, lysosomes are particularly important for destroying harmful bacteria and viruses.

The Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) connects to the RER but lacks ribosomes. It manufactures lipids, phospholipids, and steroids, while also helping break down toxins like alcohol—which explains why your liver, with lots of SER, is your body's main detoxifying organ.

Mitochondria, often called the "powerhouse of the cell," are where aerobic cellular respiration occurs, releasing energy from nutrients in the form of ATP. Human cells contain between 500-2000 mitochondria, allowing them to generate energy from different sources like monosaccharides, amino acids, and lipids.

Energy Fact: If the mitochondria in your cells suddenly stopped working, you'd run out of energy in seconds! That's how crucial these tiny powerhouses are.

Peroxisomes contain hydrolytic enzymes for various metabolic processes. They break down fatty acids and other compounds for energy production, creating hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a toxic byproduct, which they neutralize using the enzyme catalase.

Chloroplasts are found in plant cells and some protists, containing the green pigment chlorophyll. They're the site of photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide, water, and light into glucose. Vacuoles are large membrane sacks primarily used for storage—plant cells have a large central vacuole for water and nutrients, while smaller specialized vacuoles perform functions like food storage or water regulation in some single-celled organisms.

Semester 2
Unit 3
Topic-
> Cell organelles
> Organelles
> Nucleus
> Nucleolus
> Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
> Vesicles
> Golgi Apparatus
Org

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Comparing Animal and Plant Cells

Animal cells and plant cells share many organelles but have important differences. Both have a nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and ribosomes for essential cellular functions.

Animal cells uniquely contain centrioles (important during cell division), often have lysosomes, and may have small vacuoles for temporary storage. Their cell membrane is their outermost boundary, allowing flexibility in shape and movement.

Plant cells have additional structures that animal cells lack. They're surrounded by a rigid cell wall made of cellulose that provides structure and protection. They contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis and usually have a large central vacuole that maintains pressure against the cell wall (turgor pressure).

Amazing Connection: The mitochondria in your cells and the chloroplasts in plant cells were once free-living bacteria that formed a mutually beneficial relationship with early cells billions of years ago!

Plant cells also have plasmodesmata, channels that connect neighboring cells and allow direct communication. While animal cells rely primarily on vesicles for transporting materials, these connections allow plant cells to share resources efficiently throughout plant tissues.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user