VacuolesJocelyn SicklerRyan Yashinski

Vacuoles

Simple structure Enclosed by a membrane that separates the

content of the vacuole from the cytoplasm and helps maintain the pH (slightly acidic) of the cell by being selectively permeable◦ Called tonoplast in plants

Fluid inside the membrane contains nutrients and waste products

Do not have a specific size or shape Related to vesicles which are other

membrane-bound sacs found within the cell

Vacuole Structure

Structure:◦ Only one central vacuole◦ Take up a large amount of space and is formed by the fusion of

many membrane vesicles (tonoplast) Functions:

◦ Storage◦ The fluid inside the central vacuole, called cell sap, store organic

compounds such as proteins and digestive enzymes and inorganic ions, such as potassium and chloride.

◦ Used as a disposal site for by-products that could damage the cell.

◦ Contain pigments that color the cell◦ Aid in plant growth by absorbing water◦ Supports the structure of leaves and flowers

• Other: Only found in plant cells

Central Vacuole

Structure: Membrane-bound sac that enlarges with the accumulation of fluid

Function: Pump excess water out of the cell Other: Usually found in freshwater protozoa

and metazoans, such as sponges and hydra

Contractile Vacuole

Structure: Same as contractile Function: Digests food Other: Found in animals

Food Vacuole

1. What is the pH of vacuoles?

Quiz

Slightly Basic

Slightly Acidic

Neutral

Strongly Acidic

2. Which of the following is not a vacuole?

Quiz

A. Food Vacuole

C. Primary Vacuole

D. Central Vacuole

B. Contractile Vacuole

3. A central vacuole is found in…?

Quiz

A. Animal cells

C. Plant cells D. A, B, and C

B. Bacteria

4. What does a contractile vacuole dispose of from the proximity of the cell?

Quiz

A. Enzymes B. Water

D. HydrogenC. Carbon Dioxide

5. What is the fluid within a central vacuole?

Quiz

A. The Juice

D. Cell sap

B. Water

C. Cytoplasm

Good Job!

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