Introduction

All cells (Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes) share four common components: 1) a plasma membrane, an outer covering that separates the cell’s interior from its surrounding environment; 2) cytoplasm, consisting of a jelly-like cytosol within the cell in which the other cellular components are suspended; 3) DNA, the cell’s genetic material; and 4) ribosomes, which synthesize proteins.

This section will examine the cytoplasm.

The following video explains the importance of cytoplasm to cells.

Summary

• The cytoplasm is a thick, usually colorless solution that fills each cell and is enclosed by the cell membrane.
• It helps to give the cell its shape
• In eukaryotic cells the organelles are suspended in the cytoplasm
• The cytoplasm located around the organelles is referred to as the cytosol (waterier).
• Other things found in the cytoplasm include biological molecules and dissolved ions.
• Prokaryotic cells also have cytoplasm.

Sources:

“Cytoplasm-The important fluid of the cell.” By MooMooMath and Science. Retrieved from: https://youtu.be/Swv-Cf4eDbs