Features of Life > Cells > Page 11

Now that we have seen a brief history and a description of the fundamental features, of cells, we are ready to examine an individual plant cell, first as an overview and then in some detail. You will see the exterior parts of the cell, then have a look inside to see the interior compartments that perform cellular functions. As you read through this section of the Cell Module, recall the house analogy, and how all of these parts fit to make to a complete, functional cell.

Several features should be highlighted on the previous graphic. Firstly, the nucleus and vacuole make up the bulk of the volume of the plant cell. The organelles are embedded in the matrix outside of the nucleus and vacuole. The matrix, called the cytosol, is a viscous solution that contains dissolved substances and enzymes . The cytosol and organelles make up the cytoplasm of the cell.

Now that you have been introduced to the basic three-dimensional structure of a plant cell, you will these structures and the organelles in more detail. As you read through the organelle dossiers, keep in mind the structure to function relationship in biology. How something is built determines what it can do. Organelle structure is vital to its function. Also remember that just as the cell is three dimensional, so too is each structure that is described.