What are the three basic parts of a cell?

The three basic parts of a cell are the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane. The nucleus is often referred to as the control center of the cell because it houses the genetic material (DNA) and is responsible for regulating cell activities such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction. The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance within the cell membrane that contains organelles and supports various cellular processes. Finally, the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, serves as a protective barrier that regulates what enters and exits the cell, helping maintain homeostasis.

In contrast, the other options list components that may be found within a cell or related to cell function but do not represent the foundational structural elements of all cells. For example, options that include the ribosome, golgi apparatus, and endoplasmic reticulum focus on specific organelles that have particular roles within the cell rather than the overarching parts that define all cells.