The mass outside of the nucleus is termed "cytoplasm," and this may be homogeneous in appearance or may contain granules.

On the outside there is a more or less definite cell membrane.

It is generally believed that the cell material has a semi-fluid or gelatinous consistency and is contained within an intracellular meshwork.

It is an extraordinarily complex mass, whether regarded from a chemical or physical point of view.

(Fig.