Cells Flashcards
What is the Cell Theory?
- Cell is the smallest unit of life
- Cells only arise from pre-existing cells
- All living thing are composed of cells
What are the basic functions of unicellular organisms?
- Metabolism
- Reproduction
- Sensitivity
- Homeostasis
- Excretion
- Nutrition
- Growth/Movement
Metabolism
Sum of all biochemical reactions in a living organism
Reproduction
Production of offspring, either sexually or asexually
Sensitivity
Responsiveness to internal and external stimuli
Homeostasis
Maintainance of a stable internal environment
Excretion
Exhibition of removing waste products
Nutrition
Exchange of materials and gas with the environment
Growth/Movement
Ability to move and change shape and size
What is the basic structure of a cell?
- Plasma Membrane
- Genetic Material
- Ribosomes
- Cytosol
Plasma Membrane
Outer border to maintain an internal chemistry that is different from the exterior (Homeostasis)
Genetic Material (Cell)
All cells contain coded instructions (DNA) that function to control internal activities (Metabolism)
Ribosomes
All cells contain ribosomes to translate the cell’s coded instructions into functional elements (Proteins)
Cytosol
All cells must contain an internal fluid as a reaction medium for all necessary metabolic processes.
How do single-celled organisms compartmentalize?
They lack internal membrane-bound organelles but have internal regions with specialized structure and functions
