Cell Components, Organelles, and Transport Mechanisms

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Plasma Membrane

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The outer boundary of the cell that regulates what enters and exits. It’s composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and glycoproteins.

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Nucleus

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The control center of the cell, containing the cell's genetic material (DNA). It’s surrounded by a nuclear envelope and has pores for material exchange.

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Cytoplasm

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The gel-like substance inside the cell that fills the space between the plasma membrane and the nucleus. It contains organelles and is the site of most cellular processes.

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Mitochondria

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Known as the powerhouse of the cell. Mitochondria produce ATP (energy) through cellular respiration. They have a double membrane and their own DNA.

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Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

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A network of membrane-bound tubes studded with ribosomes. It’s involved in protein synthesis and modification. The Rough ER transports proteins to the Golgi apparatus.

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Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

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A network of membranes involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and calcium ion storage. It lacks ribosomes.

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Golgi Apparatus

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A stack of membranes responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for delivery to their destination (either inside or outside the cell).

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Ribosomes

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Small structures made of RNA and protein that are the sites of protein synthesis. They can be found floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough ER.

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Lysosomes

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Membrane-bound organelles that contain digestive enzymes. They break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign invaders like bacteria.

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Peroxisomes

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Small organelles that contain enzymes used to detoxify harmful substances like hydrogen peroxide and break down fatty acids.