This simple cartoon shows general similarities and differences between eukaryote and prokaryote cells.
Image courtesy of Windows to the Universe
Organelles of Eukaryotic Cells
Below is a list of organelles that are commonly found in eukaryotic cells.
| Organelle |
Function |
| Nucleus |
The “brains” of the cell, the nucleus directs cell activities
and contains genetic material called chromosomes made of DNA. |
| Mitochondria |
Make energy out of food |
| Ribosomes |
Make protein |
| Golgi Apparatus |
Make, process and package proteins |
| Lysosome |
Contains digestive enzymes to help break food down |
| Endoplasmic Reticulum |
Called the "intracellular highway" because it is for transporting
all sorts of items around the cell. |
| Vacuole |
Used for storage, vacuoles usually contain water or food. (Are you are
thirsty? Perhaps your vacuoles need some water!) |
| Plant cells also have: |
| Chloroplasts |
Use sunlight to create food by photosynthesis |
| Cell Wall |
For support |
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