3.2.1.1 Structure of eukaryotic cells Flashcards
Q: What is the function of the cell-surface membrane in eukaryotic cells?
A: The cell-surface membrane controls the movement of substances into and out of the cell, maintaining the cell’s environment. It also plays a role in cell signaling and cell recognition.
Q: What does the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell contain?
A: The nucleus contains chromosomes made up of protein-bound, linear DNA, and one or more nucleoli. It controls the cell’s activities by regulating gene expression.
Q: What is the main function of mitochondria in eukaryotic cells?
A: Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP through aerobic respiration, providing energy for the cell’s activities.
Q: In which organisms are chloroplasts found, and what is their function?
A: Chloroplasts are found in plants and algae, and their primary function is to carry out photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
Q: Describe the role of the Golgi apparatus in a eukaryotic cell.
A: The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for storage or transport out of the cell. It also produces lysosomes.
Q: What is the function of lysosomes in eukaryotic cells?
A: Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris. They can also digest invading pathogens.
Q: What role do ribosomes play in eukaryotic cells?
A: Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis, where mRNA is translated into polypeptides.
Q: Differentiate between rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER).
A: The rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is studded with ribosomes and is involved in the synthesis and processing of proteins. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and calcium ion storage.
Q: What is the composition and function of the cell wall in plants, algae, and fungi?
A: The cell wall is made of cellulose in plants, chitin in fungi, and various polysaccharides in algae. It provides structural support, protection, and helps maintain cell shape.
Q: What is the function of the cell vacuole in plant cells?
A: The cell vacuole maintains turgor pressure, stores nutrients, and waste products, and helps in the degradation of complex molecules. It is also involved in maintaining the pH and ion balance of the cell.
Q: How do specialized cells, tissues, organs, and systems relate to each other in complex multicellular organisms?
A: Specialized cells are organized into tissues, tissues into organs, and organs into systems, allowing for the division of labor and efficient functioning of the organism as a whole.
Q: How do eukaryotic cell structures contribute to the specialization of cells?
A: Eukaryotic cell structures allow cells to carry out specific functions efficiently. For example, muscle cells have many mitochondria for energy production, while plant cells have chloroplasts for photosynthesis.
