Plant and Animal Cells Flashcards

Grade 4 · Science · Flashcards

Essential vocabulary for understanding the structures and functions of cells.

Flashcards

Cell: The smallest basic unit of all living things
Cell membrane: A thin, flexible layer surrounding all cells that controls what enters and exits
Cell wall: A rigid outer layer outside the cell membrane found ONLY in plant cells; provides structure and support
Nucleus: The control center of the cell containing DNA; directs all cell activities
DNA: The genetic material inside the nucleus that carries instructions for the cell
Cytoplasm: The jelly-like fluid inside a cell that holds organelles in place
Chloroplast: An organelle in plant cells that captures sunlight and makes food through photosynthesis; contains chlorophyll
Chlorophyll: The green pigment inside chloroplasts that absorbs light energy for photosynthesis
Vacuole: A storage organelle; plant cells have one large central vacuole that stores water and nutrients
Organelle: A specialized structure inside a cell that performs a specific function
Photosynthesis: The process by which plant cells use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to make food (sugar)
Mitochondria: Organelles found in both plant and animal cells that convert food into usable energy for the cell
Organism: Any living thing; all organisms are made of one or more cells