AQA A Level Biology: Structure of Eukaryotic Cells Flashcards
What is the function of the nucleus?
- Contains DNA, which codes for proteins.
- Controls cell activities.
- Nuclear pores allow mRNA to leave the nucleus.
What is the function of the nucleolus?
Produces ribosomes and rRNA for protein synthesis.
What is the structure and function of the mitochondria?
- Double membrane with inner membrane folded into cristae.
- Matrix contains enzymes for respiration.
- Site of aerobic respiration, producing ATP.
What is the role of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)?
- Covered with ribosomes.
- Folds and processes proteins made by the ribosomes.
What is the role of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?
- No ribosomes.
- Synthesises and processes lipids and carbohydrates.
What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?
- Modifies and packages proteins and lipids.
- Produces vesicles for transport.
What is the function of lysosomes?
- Contain digestive enzymes (lysozymes).
- Break down waste material, old organelles, and pathogens.
What is the function of ribosomes?
- Site of protein synthesis.
- Made of rRNA and protein.
What is the structure and function of the cell surface membrane?
- Phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
- Controls movement of substances in and out of the cell.
What is the structure and function of the cell wall in plant cells?
- Made of cellulose.
- Provides strength and prevents the cell from bursting.
What is the function of the chloroplast?
- Site of photosynthesis.
- Contains thylakoids (stacked into grana) and stroma.
What is the role of the vacuole in plant cells?
- Stores water, ions, and nutrients.
- Maintains turgor pressure to keep the cell rigid.
What are centrioles and their function?
- Involved in the organisation of spindle fibres during cell division.
How do eukaryotic cells differ from prokaryotic cells?
- Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
- Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and have smaller ribosomes.
What is the function of vesicles?
Transport substances within or out of the cell via exocytosis or endocytosis.
What organelles are present in both plant and animal cells?
Nucleus, mitochondria, RER, SER, Golgi apparatus, ribosomes, and plasma membrane.
What additional structures are found only in plant cells?
- Chloroplasts
- Cell wall
- Large central vacuole
Why are mitochondria important for active cells?
They produce ATP, which provides energy for active processes like active transport and muscle contraction.
What is the role of the nuclear envelope?
- Surrounds the nucleus.
- Contains nuclear pores to allow mRNA and ribosomes to leave.
Why are lysosomes important in immune response?
They contain lysozymes that break down pathogens and digest harmful substances.
