Organelles and Their Functions (Simple Form)
1. Nucleus
- The nucleus is the control center of the cell.
- It stores DNA.
- It tells the cell what to do.
2. Mitochondria
- Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell.
- They make energy (ATP) for the cell.
3. Ribosomes
- Ribosomes make proteins.
- They can float in the cytoplasm or attach to the rough ER.
4. Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)
- Rough ER has ribosomes on it.
- It helps make and fold proteins.
5. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)
- Smooth ER has no ribosomes.
- It makes lipids (fats) and helps detoxify chemicals.
6. Golgi Apparatus
- Golgi apparatus is like the post office of the cell.
- It packages, sorts, and sends proteins to where they need to go.
7. Lysosomes
- Lysosomes are the clean-up crew.
- They break down waste, old cell parts, and bacteria.
8. Peroxisomes
- Peroxisomes break down toxins, especially fats and harmful chemicals.
9. Cytoplasm
- Cytoplasm is a jelly-like fluid.
- It holds all organelles in place.
10. Cell Membrane
- The cell membrane is the outer layer of the cell.
- It controls what enters and what leaves the cell.
- It gives the cell its shape.
11. Centrioles
- Centrioles help the cell divide during mitosis.
12. Vacuoles
- Vacuoles store water and nutrients.
- Plant cells have one large vacuole.
- Animal cells have small vacuoles.
13. Chloroplasts
(only in plant cells)
- Chloroplasts make food for plants using sunlight.
- This is called photosynthesis.
14. Cell Wall
(plants, fungi, bacteria — but NOT animals)
- The cell wall gives strength and protection.
- Plant cell walls are made of cellulose.
