Yr12 Applied Science > Cell Structure and Function > Flashcards

Cell Structure and Function Flashcards

(52 cards)

Study These Flashcards
1
Q

What is the cell theory?

A
  • Cells are the fundamental unit of structure, function, and organization in all living organisms
  • Cells can only develop from existing cells

This theory is foundational to understanding biology.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What are the three main parts of all cells?

A
  • Cell surface membrane
  • Cytoplasm
  • Nucleic acid (genetic material)

These components are essential for cell function and structure.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What does the cell surface membrane do?

A

Separates cell contents from surroundings and is selectively permeable

It controls what molecules can enter or leave the cell.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What are the two types of proteins found in the cell membrane?

A
  • Intrinsic proteins
  • Extrinsic proteins

Intrinsic proteins span the bilayer, while extrinsic proteins are attached to the surface.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What do channel proteins do?

A

Provide a channel for hydrophilic molecules to cross the membrane by diffusion

They facilitate the movement of specific molecules.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What are eukaryotic cells characterized by?

A

Presence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles

These cells are larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is the function of the nucleus in a cell?

A

Contains DNA, providing a template for protein synthesis

It is essential for cell regulation and function.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is the role of ribosomes in cells?

A
  • Synthesis of proteins

Ribosomes can be found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of what cellular component?

A

Cell surface membrane

It highlights the dynamic nature of the membrane with phospholipids and proteins.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?

A

Modification of proteins and packaging into vesicles

It plays a crucial role in processing and transporting proteins.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What is the primary function of mitochondria?

A

Site of aerobic respiration and ATP production

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What is the function of lysosomes?

A

Breakdown of old organelles and other molecules

They contain digestive enzymes for cellular waste management.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What do chloroplasts do?

A

Site of photosynthesis

They are found in plant cells and some protists.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What is the cell wall made of in plant cells?

A

Cellulose

It provides structure and support to the cell.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What is the difference between Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria?

A
  • Gram positive: Thick cell walls
  • Gram negative: Thinner cell walls, often covered by a capsule

This distinction is important for antibiotic treatment.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What is active transport?

A

Movement of molecules against the concentration gradient, requiring energy

It is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is diffusion?

A

Net movement of molecules from high concentration to low concentration

It is a passive process that does not require energy.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is osmosis?

A

Movement of water molecules from high water potential to low water potential

It is a specific type of diffusion for water.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What are erythrocytes specialized for?

A

Transporting oxygen in the blood

Their biconcave shape increases surface area for diffusion.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What is the role of neutrophils?

A

Engulf and destroy pathogens

They are a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What is the function of monocytes?

Study These Flashcards
A

Differentiate into phagocytic cells in tissues

They are the largest type of leukocyte.

22
Q

What do lymphocytes do?

Study These Flashcards
A

Involved in the adaptive immune response

They include B cells and T cells.

23
Q

What is the function of Eosinophils?

Study These Flashcards
A
  • Destroy cancer cells
  • Destroy some parasites
  • Phagocytosis

Eosinophils have double-lobed nuclei and make up around 5% of leukocytes.

24
Q

What is the largest type of leukocyte?

Study These Flashcards
A

Monocytes

They have a kidney bean-shaped nucleus and specialize in phagocytosis.

25
What are the two main types of **Lymphocytes**?
* B cells * T cells ## Footnote B cells develop into plasma cells that produce antibodies, while T cells can directly kill infected and cancer cells.
26
What are **Epithelial cells** adapted for?
* Covering surfaces (internal and external) ## Footnote They make up epithelium, a type of tissue.
27
What is **Squamous epithelium**?
* A single layer of thin, flat epithelial cells ## Footnote It is found where rapid diffusion is required, such as in the lungs.
28
Where is **Columnar epithelial cells** commonly found?
* Oesophagus * Intestines ## Footnote They can be adapted for protection or absorption.
29
What do **Ciliated columnar epithelial cells** have on their surfaces?
Cilia ## Footnote Cilia move in wave-like motions to transport material along their surfaces.
30
What are **Sex cells** (gametes) specialized for?
Reproduction ## Footnote They are haploid cells with one copy of each chromosome.
31
What is the function of **Sperm cells** (spermatozoa)?
Fertilize the egg ## Footnote They have a streamlined shape, flagellum, mitochondria for energy, and an acrosome with enzymes.
32
What do **Egg cells** (ova) contain?
Significant nutrient stores ## Footnote They undergo changes post-fertilization to prevent additional sperm from fusing.
33
What are the **three types** of muscle cells?
* Cardiac * Skeletal * Smooth ## Footnote Each type has distinct structures and functions.
34
What is unique about **Cardiac muscle**?
* Found only in the heart * Myogenic (does not require external impulse) ## Footnote It contracts involuntarily and has intercalated discs for efficient contraction transmission.
35
What are **Skeletal muscle cells** characterized by?
* Long and thin * Multinuclear ## Footnote They are under voluntary control and appear striated due to myofilament arrangement.
36
What is the cytoplasm of a muscle cell called?
Sarcoplasm ## Footnote It contains glycogen stores for energy during exercise.
37
What is the shape of **Smooth muscle cells**?
Spindle-shaped ## Footnote They are involuntary and found in various organs.
38
What are **stem cells**?
Unspecialised cells with differentiation potential ## Footnote They provide new cells for growth and repair.
39
Where are **embryonic stem cells** found?
Early-stage embryo ## Footnote They can divide to form all cells in the adult organism.
40
What do **Palisade mesophyll cells** contain?
Many chloroplasts ## Footnote They are tall, thin cells located beneath the epidermis in leaves.
41
What is the function of **Xylem** tissues?
Transport water and minerals from roots ## Footnote Lignin provides strength and waterproofing.
42
What does **Phloem** tissue translocate?
Products of photosynthesis ## Footnote It consists of sieve elements and companion cells.
43
What are **stomata**?
Pores in the leaf for gas exchange ## Footnote Surrounded by guard cells that regulate their opening and closing.
44
What is the **transpiration stream**?
Flow of water from roots to leaves ## Footnote It occurs as water vapor evaporates from leaves.
45
What is **translocation**?
Movement of photosynthesis products via phloem ## Footnote The site where sugars are made is called the source.
46
What is a **tissue**?
Collection of identical or similar cells sharing a common function ## Footnote Tissues work together to perform specific functions.
47
What is **simple epithelial tissue**?
A single layer of epithelial cells ## Footnote It contrasts with stratified epithelial tissue, which has multiple layers.
48
What do **microvilli** do in gastrointestinal epithelial cells?
Increase surface area for nutrient absorption ## Footnote They are tiny finger-like structures.
49
What is **blood** classified as?
Connective tissue ## Footnote It consists of specialized cells suspended in liquid plasma.
50
What does the **endocrine system** do?
Creates and releases hormones ## Footnote Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate body functions.
51
How are hormones released by endocrine glands?
By exocytosis ## Footnote They pass into fenestrated capillaries to reach target organs.
52
What is **parenchyma tissue**?
Filler or packing material in plants ## Footnote It makes up a large portion of the soft parts of a plant.
Yr12 Applied Science
flashcards
Decks in class (17)
# Cards
Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2026 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions