Each organelle provides some form of support for the life processes of the cell. Their functions are intertwined to allow cell processes to function as a cohesive whole. Mitochondria burn fuel sending energy to ribosomes on the endoplasmic reticulum, which, in turn, create new proteins that the cell can use to grow and/or reproduce.
Not all cells are the same. The presence and number of organelles in the cell are determined by what the cell does. Muscle cells need more energy than skin cells so they have more mitochondria. Leaf cells need chloroplasts while a tree trunk does not.
As you work through the Interactive Cell Activity be sure to take notes about the name and function of each organelle. You will be responsible for knowing each organelle's appearance and function.
Find out more about the cell go to the Interactive Cell Activity.
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