Animal & Plant Cells: Similarities & Differences (Edexcel IGCSE Biology)
Revision Note
Author
LáraExpertise
Biology Lead
Plant & Animal Cells
- The main subcellular structures in animal cells are:
- The nucleus: contains genetic material
- Cell membranes: controls what enters and leaves the cell
- Mitochondria: site of aerobic respiration
- Ribosomes: site of protein synthesis
- Cytoplasm: chemical reactions take place in this jelly-like substance
Some cellular structures can only be seen when viewed with an electron microscope
- In addition to the subcellular parts found in animal cells, plant cells have:
- A cell wall made of cellulose: gives the cell shape and protection
- A permanent vacuole filled with cell sap: pushes the cytoplasm against the cell wall, keeping the cell turgid
- Plant cells found in the leaf and stem may also contain chloroplasts: the site of photosynthesis
The plant cell shown above contains chloroplasts, so it would be found in the leaves of a plant
Plant Cell Structure & Functions Table
Exam Tip
You need to be able to recognise, draw and interpret images of cells, so practice drawing and labelling animal and plant cells as part of your revision.
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