List and explain the functions of two organelles that are similar AND different between plant and animal cells.

Answer 1

The two organelles that are similar between plant and animal cells are the nucleus and mitochondria.

1. Nucleus:
- Similar function: The nucleus is the control center of the cell, responsible for storing and protecting the genetic material (DNA) of the cell. It regulates the cell's activities and coordinates various cellular processes.
- Differences:
- In animal cells, the nucleus is generally found in the center of the cell. In contrast, plant cells often have the nucleus pushed to the periphery due to the large central vacuole.
- Plant cells have a distinct feature called the nucleolus, which is a dense region within the nucleus involved in the production and assembly of ribosomes. Animal cells may also have nucleoli, but they are not as prominent.

2. Mitochondria:
- Similar function: Mitochondria are responsible for generating energy for the cell. They are often referred to as the "powerhouse" of the cell because they convert nutrients into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which serves as the energy currency of the cell.
- Differences:
- Plant cells generally have a larger number of mitochondria than animal cells since they require more energy for processes like photosynthesis and growth.
- Animal cells may have mitochondria that differ in shape with elongated or spherical structures, while plant cell mitochondria are typically larger and elongated with tubular or branched structures.