cytosol vs. cytoplasm

cytosol vs. cytoplasm: What’s the difference?

Cytoplasm is the substance between a cell’s membrane (its outside layer) and its nucleus (its core). Cytosol is the fluid part of cytoplasm. Cytoplasm also consists of organelles and other parts, which float in the cytosol.

cytosol

[sahy-tuh-sawl, -sol] / ˈsaɪ təˌsɔl, -ˌsɒl /

noun

Cell Biology.

the water-soluble components of cell cytoplasm, constituting the fluid portion that remains after removal of the organelles and other intracellular structures.

cytoplasm

[sahy-tuh-plaz-uhm] / ˈsaɪ təˌplæz əm /

noun

Cell Biology.

the cell substance between the cell membrane and the nucleus, containing the cytosol, organelles, cytoskeleton, and various particles.