DNA Structure Flashcards
Define the term “Eukaryotes”.
Eukaryotes are organisms made up of cells that possess a membrane-bound nucleus that holds genetic material as well as membrane-bound organelles.
Define the term “nucleus”.
A nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell’s chromosomes (genetic material). Pores in the nuclear membrane allow for the passage of molecules in and out of the nucleus.
Define the term “membrane”.
A membrane is the thin layer that forms the outer boundary of a living cell or of an internal cell compartment. The outer boundary is the plasma membrane, and the compartments enclosed by internal membranes are called organelles.
Define the term “organelle”.
An organelle is a subcellular structure that has one or more specific jobs to perform in the cell, much like an organ does in the body.
Define the term “nuclear pore”.
The nuclear pore is a protein-lined channel in the nuclear envelope that regulates the transportation of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Each nuclear pore is a large complex of proteins that allows small molecules and ions to freely pass, or diffuse, into or out of the nucleus.
Define the term “nucleoplasm”.
The nucleoplasm; (also known as karyoplasm, karyolymph or nucleus sap); is a type of protoplasm, and is enveloped by the nuclear envelope/membrane.
The nucleoplasm includes the chromosomes and nucleolus.
Define the term “metabolism”.
Metabolism is the sum of the chemical reactions that take place within each cell of a living organism and that provide energy for vital processes and for synthesizing new organic material.
Define the term “nucleolus”.
The nucleolus is the distinct structure present in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. Primarily, it participates in assembling the ribosomes, alteration of transfer RNA and sensing cellular stress. The nucleolus is composed of RNA and proteins, which form around specific chromosomal regions
Define the term “chromatin network”.
Chromatin is a mass of genetic material composed of DNA and proteins that condense to form chromosomes during eukaryotic cell division. The chromatin is the network of the cell nucleus, which contains all the DNA of the nucleus of the cell.
Define the term “DNA”.
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a molecule that contains the biological instructions that make each species unique.
Define the term “chromosome”.
Chromosomes are thread-like structures located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells. Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
Define the term “mitochondria”.
Mitochondria are membrane-bound cell organelles (mitochondrion, singular) that generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cell’s biochemical reactions.
Define the term “chloroplast”.
Chloroplasts are plant cell organelles that convert light energy into relatively stable chemical energy via the photosynthetic process. Chloroplasts also provide diverse metabolic activities for plant cells (e.g. fatty acid synthesis)
Define the term “extranuclear DNA”.
Extranuclear DNA are the DNA molecules that are present outside the nucleus in the cytoplasm. The mitochondria have a circular DNA known as mt-DNA and chloroplast has Ct-DNA. This DNA is the site of extranuclear chromosomes. These chromosomes are responsible for the inheritance of extrachromosomal characters
Define the term “RNA”.
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is one of the three major biological macromolecules that are essential for all known forms of life. The primary role of RNA is to convert the information stored in DNA into proteins.
Define the term “monomers”.
Monomers are the smaller units from which larger molecules are made.
Monosaccharides, amino acids and nucleotides are examples of monomers.
Define the term “nucleotides”.
A nucleotide is the basic building block of nucleic acids.
A nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule (either ribose in RNA or deoxyribose in DNA) attached to a phosphate group and a nitrogen-containing base.
Define the term “cytoplasm”.
Cytoplasm is a viscous solution that fills each cell, suspends the organelles within the cell and is enclosed by the cell membrane.
It is mainly composed of water, salts, and proteins.
Define the term “hypothesis”.
A hypothesis is a suggested solution for an unexplained occurrence that does not fit into current accepted scientific theory.
Define the term “x-ray”.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can be used for medical imaging.
Define the term “helix”.
A helix is a shape like a corkscrew or spiral staircase.
Define the term “model”.
A physical, mathematical, or otherwise logical representation of a system, entity, phenomenon, or process.
What is the Nobel Prize?
The Nobel Prizes are prizes awarded annually by Swedish academies and Norwegian committees to individuals and organizations who make outstanding contributions in the fields of chemistry, physics, literature, peace, and physiology or medicine. est. 1895.
What is a Meccano-like model?
A Meccano-like model is perhaps the most famous in modern science; consisting of metal plates bolted together in a spiral.
What is a polymer?
A polymer is a substance that is built from a large number of smaller units (subunits) bonded together.
What is a monomer?
A monomer is a molecule that can react with other molecules to form much larger molecules (polymers).
