Final answer:
The primary objective of cell fractionation is to separate cellular organelles to determine their functions, using techniques like differential centrifugation and biochemical analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
A primary objective of cell fractionation is to separate the major organelles so that their particular functions can be determined. This technique involves breaking open the cells and using differential centrifugation to isolate subcellular components like mitochondria, chloroplasts, and nuclei based on their mass. By analyzing the isolated cell fractions, biochemical analysis can reveal the functions of different organelles and cellular substructures.
Through microscopy, these structures can be tentatively identified by their dimensions and appearance. Subsequent molecular analyses and biochemical tests confirm their identities, providing insights into their specific roles within the cell. Eukaryotic cells utilize organelles to compartmentalize functions in different areas, allowing for a more efficient and specialized cellular operation.