The Animal Cell
Every part of your body is made up of animal cells - from your skin to your brain! These microscopic units contain several important parts called organelles that work together like a well-organised team.
The cell membrane acts like a bouncer at a club, deciding what gets in and out of the cell. It's mostly made of fat and typically lets small things like water pass through whilst blocking larger, harmful substances.
Inside the cell, you'll find the cytoplasm - a watery mixture containing salt, glucose, and other nutrients that organelles float around in. The nucleus is like the cell's control centre, containing chromosomes made of DNA that tell the cell exactly what to do.
The mitochondrion (plural: mitochondria) is known as the cell's powerhouse because it's where respiration happens - food reacts with oxygen to release energy for everything you do. Meanwhile, ribosomes are the protein factories, making important substances like the hormone insulin.
Quick Tip: Remember "MRSGREN" - all living things need energy, and that's exactly what mitochondria provide through respiration!
