Principles of Anatomy and Physiology
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology
15th Edition
ISBN: 9781119329398
Author: Gerard J Tortora, Bryan Derrickson
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc
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Chapter 3, Problem 1CP
Summary Introduction

To review:

The three main parts of a cell, following their functions.

Introduction:

The cells are considered as the basic functional and structural unit of an organism’s body. A cell is typically called as the building block of life, which aggregates to form tissue, organ, and organ system.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

The three different parts of the cell are mentioned below:

1. Plasma membrane: The outer surface that separates the internal and the external environment of a cell is called as plasma membrane or cell membrane. It is composed of a lipid bilayer, which is selectively permeable. It works as the barrier, in order to control influx and efflux of the molecules or ions across the cell.

2. Nucleus: It is the most important part of the cell. It consists of the hereditary information of the cell in the form of DNA. Furthermore, it controls all the activities of the cell, like growth, intermediary metabolism, protein synthesis and reproduction.

3. Cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the fluid present between the nucleus and the cell membrane. It comprises various organelles like ribosomes, mitochondria, centrioles, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, and so on. It is the center for most of the cellular activities like protein synthesis, photosynthesis (in plants), and cellular respiration. Cytoplasm also plays a crucial role in maintenance of cell shape.

Conclusion

Thus, the three main parts of the cell are nucleus, plasma membrane, and cytoplasm. Plasma membrane acts as the barrier between the cellular external and internal environment and allow selected molecules to cross through it. Nucleus control all the cellular activities as it contain the hereditary material i.e. DNA. Cytoplasm consist several organelles and acts as the center for most of the cellular activities.

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Chapter 3 Solutions

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology

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