Cell-The-Fundamental-Unit-of-Life..(Basic coverage)
- 1. Cell: The Fundamental Unit of Life Cells are the basic building blocks of all living organisms. They are the smallest units of life that can carry out the essential functions necessary for an organism to survive and thrive. by Tannishtha
- 2. The Discovery of Dead Cells By Robert Hooke In 1665, the English scientist Robert Hooke made a groundbreaking discovery while examining thin slices of cork under a microscope. He observed small, box-like structures that he called "cells," as they resembled the small rooms or cells in a monastery. This was the first documented observation of the basic building blocks of life - the cell.
- 3. Cell Theory 1. The cell theory, proposed by Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden, states that all living organisms are composed of one or more cells. 2. Cells are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms. 3. All cells come from pre-existing cells through the process of cell division.
- 4. Cell Structure and Its Organisation Cells are the fundamental units of life, and their internal structure is highly organised. The cell membrane, nucleus, cytoplasm, and various organelles work together to carry out essential cellular functions. The nucleus contains the genetic material and controls the cell's activities. The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance that fills the cell and supports the organelles.
- 5. Plasma Membrane Or Cell Membrane The plasma membrane is the outer boundary of the cell, enclosing and protecting the cell's contents. It is a selectively permeable barrier, allowing certain molecules to pass in and out while blocking others. The membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer, with embedded proteins that facilitate transport and communication. Its unique structure and dynamic properties are essential for the cell's survival and function.
- 6. Cell Wall Structure of Cell Wall The cell wall is a rigid structure that surrounds and protects the plant cell. It is primarily composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, providing strength and shape to the cell. Cell Wall in Bacteria Bacterial cell walls are different from plant cell walls, often containing peptidoglycan, which gives them a unique rigid structure and helps protect the cell from osmotic pressure changes. Cell Wall in Fungi Fungal cell walls are composed of chitin, a polysaccharide that provides structural support and protection. The composition of fungal cell walls varies among different fungal species.
- 7. Nucleus and Genetic Material 1 Location The nucleus is the control center of the cell, located in the center and surrounded by the cytoplasm. 2 Genetic Material The nucleus contains the cell's genetic material, including chromosomes and DNA, which carry the instructions for the cell's functions. 3 Role The nucleus directs all cellular activities by controlling the expression of genes and the production of proteins needed for the cell to function.
- 8. Cytoplasm Definition The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance that fills the cell, providing a medium for various cellular activities and processes to occur. Composition The cytoplasm is primarily composed of water, proteins, enzymes, and other organic molecules necessary for cell function. Role The cytoplasm acts as a transportation network, moving materials throughout the cell, and providing a platform for chemical reactions to take place. Organization The cytoplasm is organized and structured, with different regions dedicated to specific cellular processes, such as protein synthesis, energy production, and waste removal.
- 9. Cell Organelles 1 Nucleus The command center of the cell, containing genetic material and directing cellular activities. 2 Mitochondria The powerhouse of the cell, responsible for generating energy through cellular respiration. 3 Endoplasmic Reticulum An intricate network of tubes and sacs that transport materials throughout the cell. 4 Golgi Apparatus Processes and packages proteins and other materials for distribution to their destination.
- 10. Endoplasmic Reticulum, Golgi Apparatus, Mitochondria, Plastids, Vacuoles Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) The ER is a network of interconnected tubules and sacs that transport materials throughout the cell and synthesize proteins and lipids. Golgi Apparatus This organelle modifies, packages, and distributes proteins and other materials synthesized in the ER for use within or outside the cell. Mitochondria The powerhouses of the cell, mitochondria convert the chemical energy in nutrients into ATP, the universal energy currency of cells. Plastids In plant cells, plastids like chloroplasts contain chlorophyll and are the sites of photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.