Plant Cells, Parts & Functions

In order for cells to perform their functions, they must have energy.

Plant cells are able to photosynthesize which is the ability to convert radiant energy into chemical energy.

Plant cells contain structures called chloroplasts that contain the green pigment chlorophyll which traps the energy from the sun & uses it to transform carbon dioxide gas & water into glucose.

Chloro- means green and plast - means small body. A Chloroplast is a small green body in a plant cell.

Glucose is a sugar that is then used as a food source for the plant as well as other organisms.

Oxygen is also produced during photosynthesis.

6CO H 2 O -> C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6H 2 O + 6O 2 WaterGlucoseOxygen Carbon Dioxide

Animal cells on the other hand must convert glucose & oxygen into the energy they need.

They are able to do this through a process called cellular respiration.

Chemical reactions take place within structures in the cells called mitochondria which allow the chemical energy stored in the bonds of glucose to be released when it reacts with oxygen.

Water & carbon dioxide are waste products for this reaction.

Other chemical activities are also happening within cells.

A cell is made up of small organ-like structures called organelles that make or break down different substances.

Each organelle has a specific function.

Plant & animal cells are similar, but have different structures specific to their needs & functions.

Common Plant Cell

Plant Cell

Organelles & Their Basic Functions…

Cell Membrane - outer layer that controls what moves in & out of the cell

Cell Wall (*Plant cells only!) - outer layer of the plant cell that shapes, protects & supports the cell

Chloroplasts (*Plant cells only!) - contains a green pigment, chlorophyll, that traps sunlight for photosynthesis

Mitochondria - site of cellular respiration that releases energy… “power house” of the cell