Eukaryotic Cells – Class 11 | Chapter – 8 | Short Notes Series PDF
Eukaryotic Cells: The term Eukaryotes is derived from the two Greek words EU (means good) and Karyon (means kernel).
This means the cell has a good nucleus.
It contains almost all the kingdoms of organisms.
Eukaryotic cells have larger and more complex structures as compared to prokaryotic cells.
The cell’s nuclear membrane covers the outer surface of the cell called the eukaryotic cell.
The organisms having a nucleus covered with a nuclear membrane are called eukaryotes.
Characteristics of Eukaryotic Cells
The features of eukaryotic cells are as follows:
Eukaryotic cells have the nucleus enclosed within the nuclear membrane.
The cell has mitochondria.
Flagella and cilia are the locomotory organs in a eukaryotic cell.
A cell wall is the outermost layer of the eukaryotic cells.
The cells divide by a process called mitosis.
The eukaryotic cells contain a cytoskeletal structure.
The nucleus contains a single, linear DNA, which carries all the genetic information.
Important Components of Eukaryotic Cells
The eukaryotic cells consist of various components. The main components of eukaryotic cells are as follows:
Plasma membrane – It covers the outer region of the cell and separates the cell structure from the external environment. It is made up of protein contents and exchanges the substances from the cell.
Cell wall – The cell wall is made from protein, cellulose, and pectins. It is found only in plant cells and absent in animal cells. It works as a protective shield for the cell.
Nucleus – Nucleus is the main part of the cells where ribosomes are produced. It also contains nucleoplasm having protein and DNA inside it.
Ribosomes – Ribosomes are found inside the nucleus of cells made up of ribonucleic acid, and protein. The protein synthesis occurs in the ribosome.
Lysosomes – These consists of hydrologic enzymes that help in the digestion of proteins like nucleic acid, lipids, carbohydrates, etc.
Mitochondria – It produces energy and maintains the metabolic activities of the cell. It is called the powerhouse of the cell.
Cytoskeleton – It is located inside the cytoplasm of the cell. It consists of fibers, microtubes, etc. which lend to shape the cell and are responsible for the movement of the cell.
Golgi bodies – It is situated close to the nucleus of the cell. These are not found in plant sieve cells and human RBCs. It is disc-shaped and plainly structured.
Endoplasmic Reticulum – It is a network of structures having small and tubular shapes. It is commonly two types – smooth and rough.