Friday, September 7, 1984

Day 5: The Brain

10:57 AM
The most important parts of the cell are coming up. The nuclear membrane, the nucleus, and the nucleolus, which hold the chromosomes. The nuclear membrane's only function is to protect the nucleus. This is very important because otherwise, the nucleus would be exposed to things that might harm it. I refer to it as bubble wrap because of its protection.

The nucleus runs the cell; it sends out instructions to each part, giving out duties. I call it Boss, because, well, it is! The Prime Minister, if you will. All the time, 24/7, it is always busy, running the cell smoothly. Whether an organsim has one cell, or one million, the nucleus is tres important.




The nucleolus, located inside the nucleus, holds the important information about the organism: DNA, chromosomes. It's like an ID card for the organism with a Social Security number on it. Just as no SS number is the same as anyone elses, neither is your DNA.






Chromosomes come in two forms, X and Y. Female organisms have two X chromosomes (XX), and males have one of each (XY). It is impossible to have two Y chromosomes (YY? I think not). They hold the organism's DNA, the genetic code. We don't think of plants as having genders, but they have chromosomes, so they do. This is the SS on your ID card.

Our journey is near it's end! Until tomorrow!

Regards,
--Mr. Kelley

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