Unlike prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells have several membrane-bound organelles. The mitochondria convert chemical energy from food into ATP, which is used to power all cell activities. The number of mitochondrion in a cell is determined by the cell's function. Muscle cells require a lot of energy, so they contain many mitochondria. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a packaging and storage facility. Rough ER contains ribosomes and is responsible for protein synthesis. Smooth ER lacks ribosomes. It is responsible for the production and storage of lipids and steroids, as well as the storage of calcium ions. The Golgi body works with the ER to create complex molecules. In animal cells, the Golgi body also creates the lysosomes that break down food and cell waste.

Like animal cells, plant cells have mitochondria, rough and smooth ER, Golgi bodies, nuclei, and cell membranes. Unlike animal cells, plant cells do not have lysosomes. They also contain two unique organelles – cell walls and chloroplasts. The main function of a cell wall is structure and support. The primary job of chloroplasts is photosynthesis. These organelles contain chlorophyll, which traps solar energy. Plant cells also have a large central vacuole that stores water and helps the cell maintain its shape.

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