Summary
The jelly-like fluid and suspended structures between the plasma membrane and nucleus where many reactions occur.
In depth
Cytoplasm includes the cytosol, a gel-like solution of water, ions, sugars, amino acids and enzymes occupying roughly half the cell volume, along with organelles and cytoskeletal filaments. Many reactions occur here, including glycolysis and the first steps of protein synthesis.
It is crowded: proteins can reach 300 mg/mL, which affects how fast molecules diffuse and how enzymes behave. Cytoplasmic streaming in plant cells moves materials around large cells.
Key idea: cytoplasm is not just filler; it is an organised, dynamic medium where metabolism and signalling are carried out.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cytoplasm?
The jelly-like fluid and suspended structures between the plasma membrane and nucleus where many reactions occur.
Which area of biology covers Cytoplasm, and how advanced is it?
Cytoplasm is one of the 52 topics in Cell Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Eukaryotic Cell, Autophagy, Ribosome.
What should I learn before Cytoplasm?
Cytoplasm is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Cell Biology that pair well with it include Cell Theory, Prokaryotic Cell, Eukaryotic Cell.
What topics are related to Cytoplasm?
The closest topics to Cytoplasm are Eukaryotic Cell, Autophagy, Ribosome, Prokaryotic Cell. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Cytoplasm?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Cytoplasm. To practise the whole of Cell Biology, use the Cell Biology quiz.
How is Cytoplasm different from Eukaryotic Cell?
Cytoplasm: The jelly-like fluid and suspended structures between the plasma membrane and nucleus where many reactions occur. Eukaryotic Cell: A complex cell with a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, found in animals, plants, fungi and protists. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Cytoplasm step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Eukaryotic Cell and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Cell Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.