Life Sciences 11 · Biology · Lesson 2.2
Organelles in detail
- Level
- Grade 11
- Reading time
- 14 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
The structure and function of every major organelle.
What are the main cell organelles and their functions?
Short answer
Organelles are specialized structures inside a cell. The nucleus stores DNA and directs activities; mitochondria release energy through respiration; ribosomes build proteins; the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus process and package them; lysosomes digest waste. Plant cells also have chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a cell wall, and a large central vacuole.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Name the major organelles of a eukaryotic cell and state the function of each.
- 02Trace how a protein is made, modified and exported through the endomembrane system.
- 03Explain how mitochondria and chloroplasts supply a cell with usable energy.
- 04Use the 'cell as a factory' analogy to relate structure to function.
A eukaryotic cell is not a bag of soup — it is an intricately organised factory, with departments that each do one job and hand their product on to the next. The nucleus is the manager's office holding the master plans; ribosomes are the assembly machines; the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus are the production line and shipping department; mitochondria are the power plant; and the membrane is the security gate controlling what comes and goes. Holding this analogy in mind turns a list of strange names into a story that makes sense, and it is the fastest way to remember what each organelle does.
School Plan
Organelles in detail
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Related topics
Frequently asked questions
- What is the function of mitochondria?
- They carry out cellular respiration, releasing energy as ATP — often called the powerhouse of the cell.
- Which organelles are unique to plant cells?
- Chloroplasts, a cellulose cell wall, and a large central vacuole are found in plant but not animal cells.