Final answer:
The endoplasmic reticulum plays various roles in the cell. The rough endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for protein synthesis, while the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, detoxification, and calcium ion storage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of the endoplasmic reticulum in the cell depends on whether it is rough or smooth. The rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is responsible for protein synthesis. It contains membrane-bound ribosomes that make proteins for the cell membrane and other destinations in the cell.
On the other hand, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is involved in lipid synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, detoxification of toxic compounds, and storage of calcium ions.