An organelle is:

An organelle is defined as a specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function. These structures play crucial roles in various cellular processes, contributing to the overall functioning and maintenance of the cell. Organelle examples include mitochondria, which generate energy through cellular respiration, and the endoplasmic reticulum, which assists in protein and lipid synthesis.

Understanding that organelles are essential components of cellular architecture helps clarify their distinction from other biological terms. For instance, tissues are groups of cells working together, while a cellular membrane surrounds cells and organelles but does not refer to the organelles themselves. Chromosomes, on the other hand, are structures made of DNA that carry genetic information, which is not the defining characteristic of an organelle. Therefore, recognizing the specific functional roles of organelles is key to grasping their importance in cellular biology.