Cell Video Flashcards
(20 cards)
Explain the modern cell theory.
The modern cell theory states that: 1) the cell is the smallest living unit in all organisms,
2) all living things are made of one or more cells, and
3) all cells come from pre-existing cells.
Do all living organisms consist of cells?
Yes, all living organisms are made of cells, which can be either unicellular (like amoebas) or multicellular (like humans).
Define prokaryotes
Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms without a nucleus, such as bacteria and archaea.
Define eukaryotes
Eukaryotes are organisms with complex cells that contain a nucleus, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists.
How do cells divide and what is the significance of this process?
Cells can divide through processes like mitosis and meiosis, which are essential for growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms.
Explain the role of organelles within a cell.
Organelles are specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct functions, such as energy production, protein synthesis, and genetic information storage.
What are the common features shared by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells share features such as genetic material, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and a cell membrane.
What is the function of ribosomes in a cell?
Ribosomes are small organelles that synthesize proteins, which are essential for various cellular functions and processes.
Describe the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have both a nucleus that holds genetic material and membrane-bound organelles.
Explain the function of the cell membrane.
The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is selectively permeable, allowing certain materials in and out to maintain homeostasis.
Define cytoplasm and its role in the cell.
Cytoplasm is a jelly-like material that surrounds internal cell structures and is found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, providing a medium for cellular processes.
How do ribosomes contribute to cellular function?
Ribosomes are responsible for making proteins, which are essential as they are coded for by genetic material (DNA). They are not membrane-bound and are found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Do ribosomes have a membrane?
No, ribosomes are not membrane-bound organelles.
What is homeostasis in the context of cell membranes?
Homeostasis refers to the stability of the internal environment of the cell, which the cell membrane helps maintain by controlling the movement of materials in and out.
What are membrane-bound organelles?
Membrane-bound organelles are specialized structures within a cell, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus, that are enclosed by membranes.
Describe the role of ribosomes in relation to DNA.
Ribosomes translate the genetic information coded in DNA into proteins, which are crucial for various cellular functions.
Describe the role of the nucleus in eukaryotic cells.
The nucleus holds the genetic material, such as DNA, and controls cell activities.
Explain the function of the nucleolus within the nucleus.
The nucleolus is responsible for producing ribosomes.
Define the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and its types.
The endoplasmic reticulum is a membrane-bound organelle involved in processing and transporting molecules. It has two types: rough ER, which has ribosomes and is involved in protein production, and smooth ER, which lacks ribosomes and is involved in detoxification and lipid production.
How does rough ER differ from smooth ER in function?
