What are specialized structures within cells called?

Specialized structures within cells are referred to as organelles. Organelles are distinct, membrane-bound systems within a cell that have specific functions crucial to the cell's survival and operation. For example, mitochondria are organelles that generate energy, while ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis.

Understanding the term organelle is essential in biology, as it distinguishes these specialized structures from broader concepts. Cells are the fundamental units of life, but they are not specialized structures themselves; they are the building blocks that contain organelles. Tissues, on the other hand, are collections of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function, and organs are composed of multiple tissues that work collaboratively for a greater purpose. Therefore, organelles specifically refer to the various functional components within a cell, making this term the most precise in describing specialized cellular structures.