Question
Question: What is a cytoplasmic matrix?...
What is a cytoplasmic matrix?
Solution
A cell is the structural and functional unit of life. We must be well known for the two terms- Protoplasm and Cytoplasm. The protoplasm of a cell includes the overall cell constituents along with the cell membrane of the cell.
Protoplasm = Cytoplasm + Cell membrane
On the other hand, the cytoplasm is the fluid that contains all the cell organelles along with the nucleus and is guarded by the cell membrane.
Complete answer:
Now the cytoplasm is a colorless viscous fluid that contains all the cell organelles.
The cytoplasmic matrix is the insoluble, dynamic, gel-like substance present in the cytoplasm that is denser and more viscous than the cytoplasmic fluid. One may term it as the intracellular fluid of cytoplasm. It surrounds the cell organelles in the cytoplasm in eukaryotes. Most of the metabolic reactions occur in the cytoplasmic matrix. Apart from this, the cytoplasmic matrix is also involved in cell shape determination and locomotory movements as in Amoeba with the involvement of pseudopodia.
Note:
Learners may consider that cytoplasm and cytoplasmic matric are the same thing but it is not so. Both the terms are different and have separate identities. The cytoplasmic matrix is also known as cytosol or ground plasm.
The differences between cytoplasm and cytosol are:
CYTOPLASMIC MATRIX/CYTOSOL | CYTOPLASM |
---|---|
Cytosol is a fluid present in the cell membrane | Cytoplasm is a cell component present inside the cell membrane |
It is composed of soluble ions, water, water-soluble proteins and molecules | It is composed of enzymes, water, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and inorganic ions. |
All the chemical reactions in prokaryotes occur here | Involved in large cellular activities like cell division and glycolysis |
Transportation of molecules and Signal transduction take place in the cytosol. | Cytokinesis, nuclear division and signal transduction take place in the cytoplasm. |