[Science Form 1] Nucleus, vacuole & cell membrane

Cells have many structures in them called organelles. These organelles are like the organs in a human body and each of them has specific functions to help the cell it is in survive.

Plant cells and animal cells have different organelles to perform specific functions. For example, plant cells have chloroplasts and a cell wall, whereas animal cells do not have these two organelles.

Do you know the functions of each cell structure? To gain a better understanding of cell structures and their respective functions.

Cell structure and it's function

• Nucleus
  Function - It is responsible for directing and controlling the activities of the cell, in the same way that your brain directs and controls the activities of your body.
  
  
  It is also carries genetic information, or the blueprints on how cells and organisms should be structured.
  
  
• Vacuole
  Function - Vacuoles are small sacs filled with food and water. They are used by cells as storage tanks. All plant cells have vacuoles, but not all animal cells do.
  
  
  The primary place where plants store water is within its vacuoles. When a plant's vacuoles are filled with water, they become plump, giving the plant its strength. What happens when you do not water a plant? It begins to wilt and become softer. This is because the vacuoles found inside the plant cells are running out of water.
  
  
• Cell membrane
  Function - This is a thin layer that surrounds a cell.
  
  
  In order for a cell to remain healthy, it needs to be able to bring in food, and get rid of waste. The cell membrane has small openings or doorways that allow the cell to move materials in and out of it.