Question
1. Provide the function of the following organelles 1.1. Cell membrane. 1.2. Chloroplast. 1.3. Nucleus. 1.4. Vacuole. 1.5. Mitochondrion.
Ask by Bright Bond. in South Africa
Jan 23,2025
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Answer
- **Cell Membrane**: Regulates what enters and exits the cell, maintains balance, and helps in communication.
- **Chloroplast**: Performs photosynthesis to make food using sunlight.
- **Nucleus**: Houses the cell's genetic material and controls cell activities.
- **Vacuole**: Stores nutrients, waste, and helps maintain cell shape.
- **Mitochondrion**: Produces energy for the cell through cellular respiration.
Solution
Here are the functions of the specified organelles:
1. **Cell Membrane**:
- The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, serves as a protective barrier that surrounds the cell. It regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis. The membrane is selectively permeable, allowing certain molecules to pass while blocking others. It also plays a role in cell communication and signaling.
2. **Chloroplast**:
- Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells and some protists. They are responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of glucose. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that captures light energy, and other pigments that assist in the absorption of light.
3. **Nucleus**:
- The nucleus is often referred to as the control center of the cell. It houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) and is responsible for regulating gene expression and cell division. The nucleus is surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, which contains pores that allow the exchange of materials between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
4. **Vacuole**:
- Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs within the cell that serve various functions, including storage of nutrients, waste products, and other materials. In plant cells, the central vacuole is particularly large and helps maintain turgor pressure, which is essential for maintaining the cell's structure and rigidity. Vacuoles can also play a role in cellular metabolism and the breakdown of waste.
5. **Mitochondrion**:
- Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell. They are responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell, through a process called cellular respiration. Mitochondria convert the energy stored in food molecules into ATP, which is then used to power various cellular processes. They also play a role in regulating metabolism and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
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Beyond the Answer
The cell membrane is like the bouncer at a club, selectively letting in and out substances to maintain the cell's internal environment while also facilitating communication between cells. It's made up of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, which help transport molecules and send signals. Chloroplasts are the green powerhouses of plant cells, responsible for converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. They contain chlorophyll, which captures light energy, and they produce glucose and oxygen as byproducts—keeping plants energized and our air fresh!