Nucleus
The Nucleus of any cell is what contains most of the genetic data. It is also what makes up Chromosomes, or DNA. The nucleus is often described as a control center because it controls the whole cell, giving it instructions on what to do or where to move etc. It's main job is to control DNA Replication and Gene Expression (which is when genetic data is used to make proteins that COULD work as hormones or enzymes).
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Cytoplasm
Cytoplasm acts like our atmosphere. Everything is inside it and all activity takes place within it. Only the Nucleus is NOT inside the Cytoplasm, as it is separated by its Nuclear Membrane ( otherwise known as nucleolemma or karyotheca ). Cytoplasm doesn't have a pigment and is not oblique.
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Cell Membrane
The Cell Membrane is what separates one cell from another. It controls what goes in and what comes out. Ions can almost freely come in and out of the cell wall. The most important and instinctive function of the Cell Membrane is to protect the contents inside it, from the outside environment. They take part in "Cell Adhesion" (When cells interact and attach themselves to a surface),
"Ionic conduction" (When Ions move from one place to another) and "Cell Signalling" (What controls how a cell moves). |
Mitochondria
Mitochondria are what create energy for the cell. It takes in nutrients and makes molecules that replenish the cell's energy. Much like how the digestive system works. Mitochondria will be created, should a cell need more energy, or is running out. Depending on the individual cell, Mitochondria can merge with other Mitochondria or it will grow larger. The outer membrane protects it, the inner membrane creates structures called Cristae and the Matrix is inside the Cristae. The Mitochondrial DNA is located inside the Matrix, therefore it doesn't need or have a Nucleus.
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