Cell Structures Flashcards
(18 cards)
Prokaryotes
Simple, unicellular organisms without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles (e.g., bacteria).
Eukaryotes
Organisms with complex cells containing a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plants, animals).
Cell Membrane
A flexible barrier that surrounds the cell and controls what enters and leaves.
Cytoplasm
The jelly-like substance inside the cell where organelles are suspended.
Cytoskeleton
A network of protein filaments that helps the cell maintain its shape and aids in movement.
Ribosomes
Small structures that make proteins by following instructions from DNA.
Organelles
Specialized structures within a cell that perform specific functions (e.g., mitochondria, chloroplasts).
Nucleus
The control center of the cell; contains the cell’s DNA.
Nucleoid Region
Area in a prokaryotic cell where DNA is located; not enclosed by a membrane.
Eukaryotic Cell
A type of cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Cell Wall
A rigid outer layer found in plant, fungi, and bacterial cells that provides structure and support.
Cilia
Small hair-like structures on the surface of some cells that help with movement or moving fluids.
Nuclear Envelope
Double membrane that surrounds the nucleus, controlling what goes in and out.
Mitochondria
Organelles that produce energy for the cell (the ‘powerhouse’ of the cell).
Chloroplasts
Organelles in plant cells where photosynthesis takes place.
Golgi Apparatus
Processes, packages, and ships proteins and other materials out of the cell.
Vesicles
Small membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within or outside the cell.
Vacuoles
Storage organelles that hold water, nutrients, or waste; larger in plant cells.
