Cell Structure and Function Flashcards
Describe the chemical level of structural organization.
At the chemical level, living things are composed of atoms, the smallest units of matter. Molecules are formed by the combination of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. Biologically important macromolecules, such as DNA, are formed by combining smaller units called monomers.
What are the four levels of structural organization in the human body?
chemical level, cellular level, tissue level, and organ level.
Explain the organellar and cellular levels of structural organization.
At the organellar level, cells contain organelles, which are internal structures surrounded by membranes that perform specialized functions. At the cellular level, the cell itself is the fundamental unit of structure and function in living organisms. Some organisms are unicellular, while others are multicellular.
How do tissues and organs differ in terms of structural organization?
muscle tissue, nervous tissue, epithelial tissue, and connective tissue in animals. Organs are collections of tissues that share a larger common function, such as the liver, kidney, stomach, heart, and brain in animals.
What constitutes an organ system, and how does it relate to the organism level?
An organ system is a higher level of organization consisting of functionally related organs. An organism is an individual living entity that may be unicellular or multicellular. Organ systems work together to maintain the overall function and health of the organism.
What are the main characteristics that distinguish living organisms from non-living matter?
- consume energy - convert it into fuel (metabolism), responsiveness to environmental changes,
- the ability to move
- development and growth, and reproduction.
How do living organisms maintain distinct internal compartments?
Living organisms maintain distinct internal compartments through cellular organization and the structural organization of tissues, organs, and organ systems.
Describe the processes of anabolism and catabolism and how they contribute to metabolism.
these processes make up an organism’s metabolism, which encompasses all chemical reactions that occur within the organism.
Why is the ability to exchange materials with the environment crucial for organisms?
maintaining homeostasis and allowing necessary substances
What are the main functions of the cell membrane?
- separates the internal contents of the cell from its external environment,
- regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell,
- provides a selectively permeable barrier.
Describe the composition and function of cytoplasm.
The cytoplasm comprises the contents of a cell between the plasma membrane and the nuclear membrane and provides a structure and a medium for biochemical reactions
How do specialized cells differ from stem cells?
Specialized cells have distinct structures and functions specific to their roles in the body. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into various types of specialized cells.
What is the cell cycle, and why is cell division important for the body?
The cell cycle is a series of events that lead to the division and replication of a cell. Cell division is crucial for growth, development, and the replacement of damaged or dead cells.
How do somatic cells differ from germ cells?
Somatic cells are body cells that undergo regular division to replace themselves. Germ cells are specialized cells that produce eggs and sperm (gametes) and do not undergo regular cell division.
