Final answer:
The nucleus is vital for storing DNA and housing the nucleolus for ribosomal RNA synthesis, while ribosomes are crucial for protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells.
Ribosomes can be found attached to the endoplasmic reticulum or free in the cytoplasm and mitochondria, and vary in size between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
The endomembrane system works in concert with ribosomes to ensure protein synthesis and distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Importance of Nucleus and Ribosomes in Eukaryotic Cells
The nucleus and ribosomes are essential organelles in eukaryotic cells due to their central roles in genetic control and protein synthesis, respectively.
The nucleus is often referred to as the cell's "information center" because it stores DNA, which contains the instructions for making all the cell's proteins.
The nucleolus within the nucleus is specifically involved in the synthesis and assembly of ribosomal RNA (rRNA), which is crucial for ribosome function.
Ribosomes are the sites where proteins are assembled. They can be found attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, or floating freely in the cytoplasm, and even within the mitochondria and chloroplasts. In eukaryotes, ribosomes in the cytoplasm are larger (80S) compared to those in prokaryotes (70S), and those within mitochondria and chloroplasts are structurally similar to prokaryotic ribosomes.
Eukaryotic cells' protein synthesis and transport mechanisms are facilitated by the endomembrane system, which includes the rough endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, and transport vesicles.
This system, together with the ribosomes, plays a critical role in the production and distribution of proteins throughout the cell and beyond.