Cell Biology Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is a cell?
The basic unit of structure and function in living organisms.
What are the two types of cells?
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic.
What is a eukaryotic cell?
A cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
What is a prokaryotic cell?
A cell without a nucleus, e.g. bacteria.
What structures are found in both plant and animal cells?
Nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, mitochondria, ribosomes.
What extra structures are found in plant cells?
Cell wall, chloroplasts, and permanent vacuole.
What is the function of the nucleus?
Controls cell activities and contains DNA.
What is the function of the cytoplasm?
Where most chemical reactions occur.
What is the function of the cell membrane?
Controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
What is the function of mitochondria?
Site of aerobic respiration.
What is the function of ribosomes?
Where protein synthesis occurs.
What is the function of chloroplasts?
Site of photosynthesis, contains chlorophyll.
What is the function of the cell wall?
Provides strength and support to plant cells.
What is the function of the vacuole?
Contains cell sap and helps keep the cell turgid.
What is a specialised cell?
A cell adapted to perform a particular function.
What is the function of a sperm cell?
To fertilise the egg – has a tail and many mitochondria.
What is the function of a nerve cell?
To carry electrical signals quickly.
What is the function of a muscle cell?
To contract and produce movement.
What is the function of a root hair cell?
To absorb water and minerals from soil.
What is the function of a xylem cell?
To transport water in plants – cells are hollow and joined end to end.
What is the function of a phloem cell?
To transport sugars in plants.
What is cell differentiation?
The process by which cells become specialised.
What is mitosis?
A type of cell division that produces two identical daughter cells.
What is the purpose of mitosis?
Growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.
