cells Flashcards
What fundamental molecules are essential components of living cells?
Cells contain fundamental molecules of life, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
What is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms?
The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms is the cell.
What are the two primary types of cells?
The two primary types of cells are prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.
What are some similarities between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes, which are essential for cellular function.
What are key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Key differences include that prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells possess both.
What is the function of pili in bacterial cells?
Pili are hair-like structures that simplify movement and help bacteria attach to surfaces.
What protective role does the capsule serve in some bacterial cells?
The capsule acts as an additional outer covering that protects bacterial cells from environmental threats and immune responses.
What is the purpose of the cell wall in most bacterial cells?
The cell wall provides structural support and protection, helping to maintain the cell’s shape.
How does the plasma membrane regulate cellular functions?
The plasma membrane surrounds the cell’s cytoplasm and regulates the flow of substances in and out of the cell, helping in transport and biosynthesis.
What is contained within the nucleoid of a bacterial cell?
single bacterial DNA molecule, which is not enclosed by a membrane.
What substances can be found in the cytoplasm of a cell?
a gel-like substance that includes ions, small molecules, and macromolecules necessary for cellular processes.
How does the flagellum contribute to the mobility of a cell?
The flagellum is a long, whip-like structure that enables cell movement by propelling the cell through its environment.
What is the primary role of ribosomes in a cell?
synthesizing proteins, translating the genetic information carried by mRNA.
What is an organelle?
specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function necessary for the cell’s survival.
What is the role of each organelle within a cell?
Each organelle has a specific and different job to do to keep the cell alive, contributing to various cellular processes.
What is the main structural difference between plant and animal cells?
The main structural difference is shape: plant cells are typically rectangular, while animal cells are round or oval.
Why are animal and plant cells classified as eukaryotic?
Animal and plant cells are classified as eukaryotic because they are multicellular and contain many organelles, including a nucleus that stores DNA.
What additional structure do plant cells have that animal cells do not?
Plant cells have a cell wall, which provides structural support, while animal cells do not.
What is the function of chloroplasts in plant cells?
Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy and producing oxygen and energy-rich compounds.
What is photosynthesis, and where does it occur?
Photosynthesis is the process that converts light energy into chemical energy, occurring in chloroplasts found in plants and green algae.
What pigment is found in chloroplasts, and what is its role?
Chlorophyll is the pigment found in chloroplasts, and it absorbs sunlight for photosynthesis.