Understanding Cell Types and Their Structures

The first page introduces three fundamental cell types: prokaryotic cells, animal eukaryotic cells, and plant eukaryotic cells, each with distinct characteristics and components.

Definition: Prokaryotic cells are simple cellular organisms lacking a membrane-bound nucleus, with their genetic material floating freely in the cytoplasm.

Highlight: The key distinguishing features of prokaryotic cells include:

• Absence of a nucleus
• Dispersed DNA in cytoplasm
• Presence of cell wall
• Single type of organelle (ribosomes)
• Optional flagella for movement

Vocabulary: Flagella are thread-like structures used for cellular movement.

Example: Animal eukaryotic cells can be found in various organisms ranging from microscopic protozoa to complex organisms like humans, ants, crocodiles, and jellyfish.

Definition: Plant eukaryotic cells are the fundamental units of algae and plants, characterized by specific structures including chloroplasts and cell walls.

Highlight: The main components of plant eukaryotic cells include:

• Nucleus containing DNA
• Cell wall
• Chloroplasts for photosynthesis
• Cytoplasm
• Vacuoles
• Ribosomes