Module 1 - Cells as the Basis of Life Flashcards
(18 cards)
What type of energy do cells use?
ATP
How do cells get ATP?
They use chemical energy from the breakdown of food to make ATP
What is an autotroph? Give some examples.
Autotrophs are organisms which can make their own food. They use external energy to turn inorganic compounds (e.g. air, soil) into food. Autotrophic organisms include plants, algae and bacteria.
What is a heterotroph? Give some examples.
They are organisms which cannot make their own food. They get their nutrients by consuming other organisms. They include animals, fungi, most bacteria and protists.
What are organic compounds?
They are made by living organisms. They include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acid, and vitamins. Most importantly, they are compounds which contain carbon and hydrogen.
What are carbohydrates?
Chains which consist of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
What is the function of carbohydrates?
They provide the cell with an easily accessible energy source. Some carbohydrates, like cellulose, have a structural role in plants.
What are lipids?
Chains of fatty acids and glycerol which consist of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
What is the function of lipids?
Lipids have a very densely packed structure, allowing them to be used for more efficient, long-term energy storage. They also play a structural role in membranes.
What are proteins?
Proteins are chains of amino acids made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. Nitrogen is the key element that makes proteins different.
What is the functions of proteins?
Proteins have a structural role (in cell membranes and tissues), and are involved in growth, repair, maintenance, and the formation of enzymes.
What are nucleic acids?
Nucleic acids are made up of chains of nucleotides, which contain carbon, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus.
What is the function of nucleic acids?
Depending on the type of nucleotide, the nucleic acid will either be DNA or RNA. DNA carries genetic information, while RNA helps the cell make proteins.
What are vitamins?
Vitamins are a ‘mixed bag’ of all the other organic compounds cells need to survive. Examples include A, B, C, D, E and K.
What is the functions of vitamins?
Almost all vitamins are involved with enzymes (help with the reaction)
Name 3 waste substances
CO2, nitrogenous waste, H2O
How is CO2 produced in the cell?
It’s made when carbohydrates or lipids break down during cellular respiration
