Diagram of Cell

The diagram of cell helps us to understand its structure and function. A cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. The cell diagram with labelling helps us point out all the cell organelles present in the cell. The cell carries out various essential processes for life, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Cell diagram class 8 is an important topic covered in the biology syllabus. The cell diagram with labelling is given below:

What is a Cell?

Definition of Cell: A cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of an organism, containing genetic material and organelles that carry out various life processes. Cells are the building blocks of all living organisms.

A cell is the smallest unit of life and is capable of all living functions. Cells are divided into two major types: Prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. Cells facilitate growth during mitosis, provide structure and support, help generate energy, permit the transport of different substances, and help in the reproduction process. The diagram of cell gives the idea of the various cell organelles present in the cell.

Types of Cells

There are two main types of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic. The main difference between the two is that prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a well-defined nucleus and organelles. The diagram of cell shows unique difference between the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.

Prokaryotic Cells

Key features are:

• Lack a true nucleus; the genetic material is present in a nucleoid region.
• Smaller and simpler in structure compared to eukaryotic cells.
• Lack membrane-bound organelles.
• Have a cell wall for structural support.
• Reproduce through binary fission.
• The genetic material (DNA) is usually a single, circular molecule.
• Examples: Bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

Key Features are:

• Have a true nucleus containing the genetic material (DNA).
• Larger and more complex in structure compared to prokaryotic cells.
• Contain membrane-bound organelles with specific functions.
• Can be further classified into plant and animal cells.
• The genetic material is organized into linear chromosomes within the nucleus.
• Examples: Plant cells, animal cells, fungi cells, and protists.
  • Plant Cells:
    • Have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose for structural support.
    • Contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis.
    • May have a large central vacuole for storing water and nutrients.
  • Animal Cells:
    • Lack a cell wall but have a flexible cell membrane.
    • Do not contain chloroplasts.
    • Typically have smaller vacuoles.
    • Centrioles are present in animal cells but absent in most plant cells.

Structure of Cell

The diagram of cell structure shows the cell vary depending on whether it is a prokaryotic or eukaryotic cell. Given below is the general overview of the structure of eukaryotic cells:

Cell Membrane

The cell diagram shows the cell membrane as a semi-permeable membrane that surrounds the cell. It protects the cell’s integrity by allowing certain substances into the cell while keeping others out. The cell membrane also supports the cell and helps to maintain its shape.

Cytoplasm

The semi-fluid substance inside the cell that contains organelles, cytoskeleton, and various molecules. In the cytoplasm various cellular processes including metabolism, protein synthesis, and intracellular transport takes place.

Nucleus

The nucleus is the central control center of the cell. The cell diagram shows nucleus containing the genetic material (DNA) that directs various cellular activities. The nuclear envelope surrounds the nucleus, and nuclear pores allow communication between the nucleus and the rest of the cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Endoplasmic reticulum consists of network of membranous tubules and sacs that are involved in the synthesis of lipids and proteins. Rough ER has ribosomes on its surface and is involved in protein synthesis, while smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.

Ribosomes

Ribosomes can be found free in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum. They are made of RNA and protein and are responsible for protein synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

Gogli apparatus are stack of membrane-bound sacs that processes, packages, and distributes molecules synthesized in the cell. It also carry out secretion of proteins.

Mitochondria

Mitochondria is powerhouses of the cell, responsible for generating energy (ATP) through cellular respiration. They have their own DNA and are believed to have originated from ancient symbiotic bacteria.

Chloroplasts (in plant cells)

Choloroplast are the organelles that contain chlorophyll, a green pigment that carry out photosynthesis in plant cells. It convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Vacuoles

Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs within the cell that store various substances such as water, nutrients, or waste products. Plant cells typically have a large central vacuole.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments (microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments) that provides structural support, maintains cell shape, and facilitates cell movement.

Lysosomes and Centrioles(in animal cells)

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles that contains enzymes that break down and recycle cellular waste and foreign materials. Centrioles are paired cylindrical structures involved in cell division. It form the spindle fibers that help separate chromosomes during mitosis.

Conclusion – Diagram of Cell

A cell is the basic unit of life. The diagram of cell shows the structure of the cell containing various cell organelles. Cells are divided into two main classes: prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller than eukaryotic cells. They do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Cells are responsible for all of life’s processes. They provide structure for the body, take in nutrients from food, convert those nutrients into energy, and carry out specialized functions.

FAQs on Diagram of Cell

What is Cell Diagram?

Cells are the structural and functional unit of all living organisms. It is a a membrane-bound structure containing genetic material and facilitating essential biological functions in living organisms.

What is Plant Cell Diagram?

A plant cell diagram shows the features of plant cells, including the presence of a cell wall, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a large central vacuole for storage, contrasting with animal cells.

What is Animal Cell Diagram?

An animal cell diagram visually shows the structure of cells in animals, highlighting key components like the nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, and organelles, offering insight into cellular organization and functions.

Which Cellular Structure Regulates the Entry and Exit of Molecules to and From the Cell?

The cell membrane, also called the plasma membrane, regulates the entry and exit of molecules to and from the cell.

Name the Cell Organelle that Contains Hydrolytic Enzymes Capable of Breaking Down Organic Matter.

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles that contain hydrolytic enzymes that break down organic matter.

What is the Importance of the Cell?

Cells are the basic building blocks of all living things. They provide structure and support for the body, help in the process of growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

What is the Difference Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cell?

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a well-defined nucleus and organelles.