Biology - 1.1 Flashcards
What is the function of the nucleus in an animal cell?
The nucleus controls the activities of the cell by regulating gene expression and storing genetic material (DNA).
What role does cytoplasm play in an animal cell?
The cytoplasm is where most of the chemical reactions of the cell take place, including processes like glycolysis.
What is the function of the cell membrane in an animal cell?
The cell membrane controls the passage of substances into and out of the cell, maintaining the internal environment.
What happens in the mitochondria of an animal cell?
The mitochondria are where most of the energy is released during cellular respiration, producing ATP for the cell.
Where does protein synthesis occur in animal cells?
Protein synthesis occurs in the ribosomes, where amino acids are assembled into proteins based on the sequence of mRNA.
What is the structure and function of a red blood cell?
Red blood cells have a biconcave shape and no nucleus, increasing their surface area for oxygen transport. Their main function is to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body using hemoglobin.
How does the structure of a nerve cell (neuron) help its function?
Neurons have long extensions called axons to transmit electrical signals over long distances. Dendrites at the other end receive signals from other neurons, allowing communication within the nervous system.
What is the role of ciliated epithelial cells in tissues?
Ciliated epithelial cells have tiny hair-like structures (cilia) on their surface, which help move mucus and trapped particles out of the airways, keeping the respiratory tract clear.
How does the structure of muscle cells support their function in muscle tissue?
Muscle cells contain many mitochondria to produce the energy needed for contraction. They are long and have protein filaments that slide over each other to allow movement and contraction.
How does the structure of a palisade cell in a leaf support its function?
Palisade cells are packed with chloroplasts and have an elongated shape to maximize light absorption for photosynthesis. They are found in the upper part of the leaf where they can capture the most sunlight.
What is the role of root hair cells in plants?
Root hair cells have long extensions that increase the surface area for water and mineral absorption from the soil. Their thin walls allow efficient transport of water into the plant.
How does the structure of sperm cells support reproduction?
Sperm cells have a long tail (flagellum) for swimming to reach the egg. They also have a streamlined shape, many mitochondria for energy, and enzymes in the head (acrosome) to penetrate the egg cell.
How does the structure of white blood cells relate to their role in the immune system?
White blood cells can change shape to move toward sites of infection and engulf pathogens (phagocytosis). Some white blood cells produce antibodies to target and neutralize pathogens.
How are epithelial cells structured to form tissues in the skin or lining of organs?
Epithelial cells are tightly packed together to form protective layers. In organs like the intestines, some epithelial cells are specialized for absorption, with microvilli increasing surface area for nutrient uptake.
How does the structure of xylem cells in plants relate to their function?
Xylem cells are long, hollow tubes with thick walls strengthened by lignin, providing support and allowing the transport of water and minerals from the roots to the leaves.
