BSC 2010C Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Starch, Chlorophyll
Document Summary
Plastids are a group of membrane-bound organelles found in plant cells. They are double-membrane- bound organelles that are involved in a wide range of cellular processes, including photosynthesis, starch storage, and pigment synthesis. Plastids are typically oval or spherical in shape and vary in size from a few micrometers to several micrometers in diameter. Plastids can be classified into several types based on their functions and morphology. Chloroplasts are the most well-known plastids and are responsible for the photosynthesis process in plants. They are green in color due to the presence of chlorophyll pigment, which helps them to capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy. Another important type of plastids is chromoplasts, which are responsible for the synthesis and accumulation of pigments such as carotenoids and anthocyanins. These pigments provide color to plant structures such as flowers and fruits.