Question map
The living content of cell is called protoplasm. It is composed of:
Explanation
Protoplasm is defined as the entire living substance of a cell [1]. It is a complex, colorless material that encompasses all components within the cell membrane. Structurally, protoplasm is divided into two main regions: the cytoplasm, which is the fluid outside the nucleus, and the nucleoplasm, which is the fluid contained within the nuclear envelope. Furthermore, the cytoplasm itself houses various cellular organelles such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and plastids, which are essential for metabolic processes [1]. Therefore, protoplasm is comprehensively composed of the cytoplasm, the nucleoplasm (nucleus), and all other organelles. While some simplified definitions focus on the cytoplasm and nucleus, the most accurate biological description includes the organelles as they constitute the functional living material of the cell.
Sources
- [1] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 2: The Invisible Living World: Beyond Our Naked Eye > Activity 2.3: Let us investigate > p. 12