What is Protoplasm ? In the year 1846, Hugo von Mohl used the term " protoplasm " for the first time. Protoplasm can be defined as a living substance that plays a very important role in various processes of the cell. It consists of the cell cytoplasm along with the cell organelles. The plant protoplasm is surrounded by the cell membrane and the cell wall whereas the animal protoplasm is surrounded by the cell membrane. It is a mixture of organic and inorganic components. It is essential for the ... Protoplasm is the term for the living parts of a cell, such as the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Learn about the components and functions of protoplasm in eukaryotes and prokaryotes, and the difference between protoplasm and cytoplasm. Protoplasm is the living matter of the cell that includes cytoplasm and nucleus. Learn about its theory, diagrams, examples and video on Biology Reader.