SSTs ( Module 1)

Question 1

Cell Wall

Answer 1

The cell wall is a rigid, protective layer surrounding the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Composed primarily of cellulose in plants, chitin in fungi, and peptidoglycan in bacteria, the cell wall provides structural support, helps maintain cell shape, and serves as a barrier against external pressures.

Question 2

Chloroplasts

Answer 2

Chloroplasts are specialized organelles found in plant cells and some algae, responsible for photosynthesis. These membranous structures contain chlorophyll pigments, facilitating the conversion of light energy into chemical energy, thereby enabling the synthesis of organic compounds and oxygen production.

Question 3

Cytoplasm

Answer 3

Cytoplasm is the semi-fluid substance that fills a cell, encompassing organelles and providing a medium for various cellular processes. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of organelles, supporting biochemical reactions, and maintaining the structural integrity of the cell.

Question 4

Eukaryote

Answer 4

Eukaryotes represent a diverse domain of organisms characterized by cells with a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. This advanced cellular structure distinguishes them from prokaryotes, and eukaryotes encompass a broad spectrum of life forms, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Question 5

Light Microscope

Answer 5

The light microscope is an optical instrument employing visible light to magnify and observe specimens. Utilizing lenses and illumination, it enables the study of cellular and subcellular structures, offering a fundamental tool in biological research and diagnostics.

Question 6

Magnification

Answer 6

Magnification is the process of enlarging the apparent size of an object, often achieved through optical instruments such as microscopes. It allows for detailed observation and analysis of structures or phenomena not easily discernible by the naked eye, thereby enhancing our understanding of intricate biological, physical, or chemical systems.

Question 7

Mitochondrion

Answer 7

The mitochondrion is a vital, membrane-bound organelle within eukaryotic cells, recognized for its central role in energy production through aerobic respiration. This double-membraned structure harbors enzymes crucial for the conversion of nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), serving as the cellular powerhouse and underscoring its significance in metabolic processes.

Question 8

Nucleus

Answer 8

The nucleus is a highly organized, membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells, serving as the command center for genetic information. It houses the cell’s DNA, orchestrating essential cellular functions through the regulation of gene expression and the synthesis of RNA, thereby playing a pivotal role in the cell’s growth, development, and reproduction.

Question 9

Organelle

Answer 9

An organelle is a specialized, membrane-bound substructure within a cell that performs distinct functions, contributing to the overall cellular organization and function. These intracellular entities, such as the mitochondria or endoplasmic reticulum, play integral roles in various cellular processes, emphasizing their significance in maintaining cellular homeostasis and supporting life functions.

Question 10

Phospholipid

Answer 10

Phospholipids are essential molecules in cellular membranes, characterized by a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails. As the fundamental building blocks of lipid bilayers, they arrange themselves to form the structural basis of cell membranes, contributing to selective permeability and compartmentalization in biological membranes.

Question 11

Plasma Membrane

Answer 11

The plasma membrane is a semipermeable barrier that surrounds and defines the boundaries of a cell. Composed of phospholipids and proteins, it regulates the passage of substances, maintains cellular integrity, and facilitates communication with the extracellular environment.

Question 12

Prokaryote

Answer 12

A prokaryote is a unicellular organism lacking a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Found in the domains Bacteria and Archaea, prokaryotes represent a structurally simpler form of life, yet they exhibit remarkable adaptability and play crucial roles in various ecological processes.

Question 13

Resolution

Answer 13

Resolution, in the context of microscopy, refers to the clarity and detail discernible in an image. It is a measure of the microscope’s ability to distinguish between closely spaced objects, providing a higher level of precision and information in the visualization of fine structures.

Question 14

Active Transport

Answer 14

Active transport is a cellular process that expends energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient, typically from an area of lower concentration to higher concentration. Utilizing energy from ATP or other sources, this mechanism ensures the transportation of ions and molecules across cell membranes, maintaining cellular homeostasis and enabling the cell to accumulate essential substances.

Question 15

Cell Wall

Answer 15

The cell wall is a rigid extracellular structure surrounding the cell membrane in plants, fungi, and bacteria. Composed of materials such as cellulose, it provides structural support, protection, and shape to the cell, contributing to the overall integrity of plant cells.

Question 16

Chloroplast

Answer 16

Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells and some algae, responsible for photosynthesis. These green-pigmented structures contain chlorophyll, enabling the conversion of light energy into chemical energy, playing a pivotal role in the synthesis of organic compounds and oxygen production.

Question 17

Cytoplasm (simpler)

Answer 17

Cytoplasm is the gel-like substance within a cell that houses organelles and facilitates various cellular activities. Comprising cytosol and organelles, it serves as a medium for biochemical reactions supports cellular structures, and allows for the intracellular transport of substances.

Question 18

Endocytosis

Answer 18

Endocytosis is a cellular process by which cells engulf external materials by wrapping the cell membrane around them, forming vesicles. This active transport mechanism enables the uptake of substances such as nutrients, signaling molecules, and pathogens, contributing to cellular nutrient acquisition and communication.

Question 19

Enzyme

Answer 19

Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions within cells by lowering the activation energy required. Highly specific, these protein molecules play crucial roles in metabolism, facilitating processes such as digestion, energy production, and cellular regulation.

Question 20

Fluid Mosaic Model

Answer 20

The fluid mosaic model describes the dynamic and flexible nature of the cell membrane. Composed of a mosaic of diverse proteins embedded in a fluid lipid bilayer, this model reflects the membrane’s ability to adapt, allowing for cellular functions such as selective permeability and signal transduction.

Question 21

Photosynthesis

Answer 21

Photosynthesis is the complex biochemical process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy. Occurring in chloroplasts, it involves the synthesis of glucose from carbon dioxide and water, utilizing the energy captured by chlorophyll during exposure to sunlight.

Question 22

Respiration

Answer 22

Respiration encompasses cellular processes that release energy from organic molecules, typically through the consumption of oxygen. Cellular respiration, occurring in mitochondria, involves the breakdown of glucose to produce ATP, the cell’s primary energy currency, essential for various cellular activities.

Question 23

Investigate

Answer 23

Meaning: To conduct a systematic inquiry or examination into a subject or phenomenon.
Example: “The researchers decided to investigate the impact of climate change on local biodiversity.”

Question 24

Describe

Answer 24

Meaning: To provide a detailed account or representation of the characteristics, features, or qualities of something.
Example: “The author aimed to describe the intricate details of the ancient artifact in the historical manuscript.”

Question 25

Modelling

Answer 25

Meaning: To create a simplified representation or simulation of a system or process to understand, analyze, or predict its behavior. Example: "Scientists used computer models to simulate the potential effects of a new drug on the progression of a disease."

Question 26

Compare

Answer 26

Meaning: To examine the similarities and differences between two or more items, concepts, or phenomena. Example: "The study aimed to compare the efficiency of two different methods in water purification."

Question 27

Examine

Answer 27

Meaning: To inspect, analyze, or scrutinize in detail, often to understand or assess the nature or qualities of something. Example: "The researchers decided to examine the correlation between sleep patterns and cognitive performance."

Question 28

Relate

Answer 28

Meaning: To establish a connection, association, or link between different elements or variables. Example: "The scientist sought to relate the levels of environmental pollution to the health outcomes of the local population."

Question 29

Organelles Continued Distinct Functions

Answer 29

Organelles in a cell perform diverse and specific functions crucial for the cell's survival and overall functionality. For example: Mitochondria: Generate energy through cellular respiration, producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Facilitates protein and lipid synthesis, with rough ER involved in protein synthesis and smooth ER in lipid metabolism. Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport to various cellular destinations. Nucleus: Houses and protects genetic material (DNA), and orchestrates gene expression and cellular activities. Chloroplasts (in plant cells): Perform photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy and producing glucose. Lysosomes: Contain enzymes for breaking down and recycling cellular waste and debris. Vacuoles: Store nutrients, and waste products, and provide structural support in plant cells. Ribosomes: Synthesize proteins by translating genetic information from mRNA. These distinct functions collectively contribute to the overall organization, survival, and specialized activities of eukaryotic cells.

Question 30

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

Answer 30

ATP is a high-energy molecule crucial for cellular energy transfer. Acting as a primary energy currency in cells, ATP stores and releases energy through the hydrolysis of its phosphate bonds, providing the necessary energy for various cellular processes.

Question 31

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

Answer 31

RNA is a nucleic acid involved in the transmission of genetic information and protein synthesis. It differs from DNA in structure and function, playing essential roles in processes such as transcription and translation.

Question 32

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Answer 32

DNA is a complex molecule that carries genetic information in cells. It consists of two strands forming a double helix and serves as a blueprint for the synthesis of RNA and, ultimately, protein production.

Question 33

Cells

Answer 33

Cells are the basic structural and functional units of living organisms. They vary in structure and function, comprising organelles and a cell membrane, and are the building blocks of tissues, organs, and entire organisms.

Question 34

Parts Of Cells

Answer 34

Cells consist of various organelles, including the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and others, each with specific functions contributing to the overall cellular processes.

Question 35

Cytosol

Answer 35

Cytosol is the liquid component of the cytoplasm, excluding organelles. It contains water, ions, and organic molecules, serving as the medium for cellular activities and supporting the structural integrity of the cell.

Question 36

Cellulose

Answer 36

Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate and a major component of plant cell walls. Its fibrous structure provides strength and rigidity to plant cells, contributing to the overall structural integrity of plant tissues.

Question 37

Chitin

Answer 37

Chitin is a structural polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of arthropods (insects, crustaceans) and the cell walls of fungi. It provides rigidity and support to these organisms.

Question 38

Peptidoglycan

Answer 38

Peptidoglycan is a structural component of bacterial cell walls. It forms a mesh-like structure, providing strength and protection to bacterial cells.

Question 39

Protists

Answer 39

Protists are a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms, encompassing various single-celled organisms such as amoebas, algae, and protozoa. They exhibit considerable diversity in structure, habitat, and life cycle.

Question 40

Aerobic Respiration

Answer 40

Aerobic respiration is a cellular process that utilizes oxygen to break down organic molecules, typically glucose, into carbon dioxide and water. This process occurs in the mitochondria, producing a significant amount of ATP for cellular energy.

Question 41

Hydrophilic Proteins

Answer 41

Hydrophilic proteins have an affinity for water molecules. They often play roles in cellular signaling, transport, and maintaining the structural integrity of membranes.

Question 42

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Answer 42

The endoplasmic reticulum is an organelle involved in protein and lipid synthesis. It consists of a rough endoplasmic reticulum (with ribosomes) and a smooth endoplasmic reticulum (lacking ribosomes), each serving distinct functions in cellular processes.

Question 43

Organic Compounds (with examples)

Answer 43

Organic compounds are carbon-based molecules found in living organisms. Examples include carbohydrates (e.g., glucose), lipids (e.g., fats), proteins (e.g., enzymes), and nucleic acids (e.g., DNA and RNA), serving various structural and functional roles in cells.

Question 44

Proteins

Answer 44

Proteins are complex macromolecules composed of amino acid chains, intricately folded into three-dimensional structures. These versatile biomolecules play crucial roles in virtually every aspect of cellular structure and function. Serving as enzymes, receptors, transporters, antibodies, and structural components, proteins participate in cellular signaling, metabolism, and maintaining the overall integrity and dynamic equilibrium of living organisms.

Question 45

Photosynthesis (formula explained)

Answer 45

Photosynthesis is a complex biological process that can be represented by a simplified chemical equation. The overall formula for photosynthesis is: 6CO 2+6H 2 O→C 6 H 12 O 6 +6O 2 arrow = light energy + chlorophyll ​ In other words, this equation can be interpreted as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll, being transformed into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). This captures the essence of the process where plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. Keep in mind that this is a simplified representation, and the actual process involves several intermediate steps within the chloroplasts.

Question 46

Lipid Bilayers

Answer 46

Lipid bilayers are structural arrangements in cell membranes composed of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules, characterized by hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails, organize themselves to form a flexible and dynamic barrier. This bilayer structure provides selective permeability, regulating the passage of substances in and out of cells, and serves as a fundamental foundation for the integrity and functionality of cellular membranes.