Question

Define structure and function of a cell.

Answer 1

A cell is a fundamental structural and functional unit of life. Thus a cell is capable of existing independently and performing all the vital functions. The structure of cell consists of following structures, namely-

1) Cell wall - In plant cells only, outermost layer.

2) Cell membrane - outermost layer in the animal cell.

3) Endo-membrane system consisting of -The endoplasmic reticulum (ER){having smooth ER and rough ER}, Golgi apparatus, Lysosomes and Vacuoles.

4) Mitochondria: as energy-producing organelle in the cell.

5) Plastids: In plant cells only.

6) Ribosomes

7) Cytoskeleton of cell

8) Cilia and Flagella

9) Centrosome and centrioles.

10) Nucleus.

All of these structures work under influence of one another causing functioning of the cell for vital processes.