BIO EXAM Flashcards
(47 cards)
What are the main differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; prokaryotic cells do not
Eukaryotic cells include plants and animals, while prokaryotic cells are mainly bacteria.
What is the primary function of the cell membrane?
Regulates what enters and leaves the cell
It is also involved in cell signaling and communication.
What are the components of a phospholipid?
Glycerol, two fatty acids, and a phosphate group
Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules, meaning they have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties.
Define osmosis.
The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to high solute concentration
It is a type of passive transport.
What is the significance of the SA/VOL ratio in cells?
Higher SA/VOL ratios facilitate efficient diffusion
Smaller cells or elongated shapes increase this ratio.
List the parts of a scientific experiment.
- Dependent Variable (DV)
- Independent Variable (IV)
- Control
- Aim
- Hypothesis
- Repeatability
- Validity
- Precision
Understanding these components is crucial for designing and analyzing experiments.
What is binary fission?
A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotic cells where a single cell divides into two identical cells
It is a simple and efficient form of reproduction.
What are the phases of mitosis?
- Prophase
- Metaphase
- Anaphase
- Telophase
Each phase has distinct events and characteristics crucial for cell division.
What is the structure and function of DNA?
DNA is a double helix made of nucleotides that store genetic information
Nucleotides consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Define apoptosis.
Programmed cell death that is a normal part of growth and development
It is crucial for maintaining healthy tissue and removing damaged cells.
What are stem cells?
Undifferentiated cells that can develop into various cell types
They play a key role in growth, development, and tissue repair.
What is the function of the p53 gene?
Regulates the cell cycle and prevents tumor formation
Abnormal p53 gene can lead to uncontrolled cell division and cancer.
What is the hierarchy of order of cells?
Cells -> Tissues -> Organs -> Organ Systems -> Organism
This hierarchy illustrates the organization in biological systems.
Define homeostasis.
The maintenance of a stable internal environment in an organism
Examples include regulation of blood glucose levels.
What role does insulin play in homeostasis?
Regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells
Insulin is produced by the pancreas and is crucial for energy balance.
What are the three tenets of cell theory?
- All living things are composed of cells. 2. The cell is the basic unit of life. 3. All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
What are the three components in all cells?
- Plasma membrane. 2. Cytoplasm. 3. Genetic material (DNA).
What are the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
How do cell size and shape differ?
Cell size and shape vary based on function; for example, muscle cells are long and thin, while red blood cells are disc-shaped.
What is the surface area to volume ratio (SA : V)?
The SA : V ratio is a measure of the amount of surface area per unit volume of an object.
How does the SA : V ratio limit cell size?
As cells grow, their volume increases faster than their surface area, limiting the efficiency of nutrient uptake and waste removal.
How can the SA : V ratio be increased?
The SA : V ratio can be increased by cell division, developing folds or projections, or by being elongated.
