- The cell depicted is a plant cell, identifiable by the presence of a rigid cell wall surrounding the plasma membrane and the large central vacuole.
- The large, centrally located organelle with a double membrane and nucleolus is the nucleus, which houses the cell's genetic material and controls cellular activities.
- The numerous oval-shaped organelles with internal folded membranes (cristae) are mitochondria, responsible for cellular respiration and ATP production.
- The network of membranous tubules and sacs is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER); the portions studded with small dots (ribosomes) constitute the rough ER, involved in protein synthesis, while the smooth ER (lacking ribosomes) is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
- The stack of flattened membranous sacs adjacent to the nucleus is the Golgi apparatus, which modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles.
- The small, dark, spherical structures attached to the rough ER and scattered in the cytoplasm are ribosomes, the sites of protein synthesis.
- The large, clear, irregularly shaped structure occupying much of the cell’s volume is the central vacuole, which stores water, ions, and waste products and helps maintain turgor pressure.
- The outermost layer, providing structural support and protection, is the cell wall, composed primarily of cellulose.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of plant cell coloring worksheet key.
