cells Flashcards
know everything about cells (24 cards)
What is a hypotonic solution?
A solution where the solute concentration is lower outside the cell than inside
In a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell, creating turgor pressure.
What happens to a plant cell in a hypotonic solution?
Water moves into the cell, causing it to become turgid
The cell wall prevents the cell from bursting.
What is a hypertonic solution?
A solution where the solute concentration is higher outside the cell than inside
In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell.
What happens to a plant cell in a hypertonic solution?
Water moves out of the cell, causing plasmolysis and making the cell flaccid
The cell membrane may pull away from the cell wall.
Define osmosis.
The movement of water from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.
What is turgor pressure?
Pressure created by the influx of water in plant cells, maintaining rigidity
It is a key feature that distinguishes plant cells from animal cells.
What is the function of the nucleus in eukaryotic cells?
Coordinates cell growth, regulates cellular activities, metabolism, and reproduction.
What is the role of mitochondria?
Converts nutrients into ATP through aerobic respiration.
What are the two distinct regions of the Endoplasmic Reticulum?
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)
RER is involved in protein synthesis; SER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
What is the function of the Golgi Apparatus?
Processes, modifies, packages, and sorts proteins and lipids.
What is a vacuole?
A membrane-bound organelle that stores nutrients, ions, sugars, pigments, and waste products.
What is the primary function of the cell membrane?
Acts as a semi-permeable barrier that controls the passage of substances.
What is the cytoplasm?
Gel-like substance that fills the cell’s interior and encompasses cellular organelles.
What are ribosomes responsible for?
Protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
What role do centrioles play in animal cells?
Organize microtubules and form the mitotic spindle during cell division.
What is the function of chloroplasts?
Site of photosynthesis in plant cells.
What is the structure of the cell wall?
An outer layer that provides structural support, found only in plant cells.
List the phases of Interphase.
- G1 (Growth 1)
- S (Synthesis)
- G2 (Growth 2)
What occurs during Mitosis?
The process where the cell’s nucleus divides into two identical nuclei.
What is cytokinesis?
The final stage of cell division where the cytoplasm divides, creating two distinct daughter cells.
What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; eukaryotic cells have them.
What are the characteristics of living organisms?
- Movement
- Respiration
- Sensitivity
- Growth
- Reproduction
- Excretion
- Nutrition
What is the function of decomposer microorganisms?
Break down organic matter and release nutrients back into the environment.
What is the importance of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms?
Convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, promoting growth and nutrient cycling.
