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IGCSE - Cell

The document discusses cells which are the basic units of life. It covers the key concepts of cells including cell theory and types of cells. It also describes the structures and functions of organelles in cells as well as specialized cell types.

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Samer Awwad
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228 views4 pages

IGCSE - Cell

The document discusses cells which are the basic units of life. It covers the key concepts of cells including cell theory and types of cells. It also describes the structures and functions of organelles in cells as well as specialized cell types.

Uploaded by

Samer Awwad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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IGCSE: Cell

In IGCSE Biology, a cell is defined as the basic structural, functional, and biological unit
of all living organisms. Understanding cells is fundamental to biology as they are the
building blocks of life. Here’s an in-depth look at the concept of cells as covered in the
IGCSE Biology syllabus:

Key Concepts of Cells

1. Cell Theory:
• All living organisms are composed of cells.
• The cell is the basic unit of life.
• All cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Types of Cells

1. Prokaryotic Cells:

• Examples: Bacteria and archaea.


• Characteristics:
• Lack a true nucleus; genetic material is in the nucleoid region.
• Lack membrane-bound organelles.
• Generally smaller and simpler than eukaryotic cells.

2. Eukaryotic Cells:

• Examples: Plant cells, animal cells, fungi, and protists.


• Characteristics:
• Have a true nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane.
• Contain membrane-bound organelles (e.g., mitochondria,
chloroplasts).
• Generally larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells.

Structure and Functions of Cell Organelles


1. Nucleus:

• Contains genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.


• Surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope.
• Contains the nucleolus, where ribosomes are made.

2. Cytoplasm:

• Jelly-like substance where most cellular activities occur.


• Contains enzymes that facilitate biochemical reactions.

3. Cell Membrane:

• Semi-permeable membrane that controls the movement of substances in


and out of the cell.
• Provides protection and structural support.

4. Mitochondria:

• Site of aerobic respiration, producing ATP (energy currency of the cell).


• Have a double membrane; the inner membrane is folded into cristae.

5. Ribosomes:

• Sites of protein synthesis.


• Can be free in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum.

6. Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):

• Rough ER: Studded with ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis and


transport.
• Smooth ER: Lacks ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis and
detoxification.

7. Golgi Apparatus:

• Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery
to other organelles.
8. Lysosomes (mainly in animal cells):

• Contain digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular


debris.

9. Chloroplasts (only in plant cells):

• Site of photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.


• Contain chlorophyll, the pigment that captures light energy.

10. Cell Wall (only in plant cells, fungi, and some prokaryotes):

• Rigid outer layer providing structural support and protection.


• Made of cellulose in plants.

11. Vacuole:

• Large central vacuole in plant cells for storage and maintaining turgor
pressure.
• Smaller vacuoles in animal cells for storage and transport.

Specialized Cells

1. Red Blood Cells:

• Biconcave shape increases surface area for oxygen transport.


• Contain hemoglobin, which binds oxygen.
• Lack a nucleus to maximize space for hemoglobin.

2. White Blood Cells:

• Involved in immune response.


• Different types (e.g., lymphocytes, phagocytes) have specific roles.

3. Nerve Cells (Neurons):

• Transmit electrical impulses.


• Long extensions (axons and dendrites) to connect with other neurons.

4. Muscle Cells:

• Specialized for contraction.


• Contain numerous mitochondria to provide energy for movement.

5. Root Hair Cells (in plants):

• Increase surface area for absorption of water and minerals.


• Thin cell wall to facilitate water uptake.

Summary

Cells are the fundamental units of life, each with specialized structures and functions
that enable organisms to survive, grow, and reproduce. In IGCSE Biology, understanding
the different types of cells, their structures, and functions is crucial for grasping more
complex biological concepts and processes.

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