ANIMAL CELL Meaning and
Definition
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An animal cell refers to a fundamental structural and functional unit of life that constitutes the basic building block of an animal organism. A microscopic and eukaryotic entity, it forms a vital component of all animal tissues and organs. Animal cells are characterized by their distinct properties, including the presence of a true nucleus enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
The structure of an animal cell comprises various organelles, each with specific functions. The key organelles within an animal cell are the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, and lysosomes. The nucleus acts as the control center of the cell, housing the genetic material in the form of DNA. It regulates cell activities and coordinates cellular functions.
The mitochondria are responsible for producing energy by converting nutrients into a usable form known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through the process of cellular respiration. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, while the endoplasmic reticulum aids in protein and lipid production. The Golgi apparatus helps package and transport proteins within and outside the cell.
The cytoplasm serves as a gel-like substance within the cell, providing structural support and hosting various metabolic reactions. The cell membrane acts as a flexible barrier, surrounding and protecting the cell while controlling the movement of substances into and out of the cell. Lastly, lysosomes function in the degradation of waste materials and cellular debris.
The intricate organization and specialization of animal cells allow them to perform essential functions such as growth, reproduction, and maintenance of homeostasis in living organisms. Their collective contributions contribute to the overall functioning of complex animal systems, both in basic physiological processes and in higher-order functions enabling animal survival and development.
Common Misspellings for ANIMAL CELL
- znimal cell
- snimal cell
- wnimal cell
- qnimal cell
- abimal cell
- amimal cell
- ajimal cell
- ahimal cell
- anumal cell
- anjmal cell
- ankmal cell
- anomal cell
- an9mal cell
- an8mal cell
- aninal cell
- anikal cell
- anijal cell
- animzl cell
- animsl cell
- animwl cell
Etymology of ANIMAL CELL
The word "animal" is derived from the Latin word "animalis", which means "animate" or "living". It is a noun form of the Latin word "anima", which means "breath" or "soul". The word "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "chamber". Therefore, the term "animal cell" combines "animal" to denote living organisms and "cell" to refer to the basic structural and functional unit found in living organisms.
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