Knowledge of the Cell Flashcards
Prior to the development of the microscope, the concept of spontaneous generation was widely accepted. What was ‘spontaneous generation’?
The idea that life could emerge spontaneously from non-living matter.
What lead to cell theory?
Improvements in lens technologies and scientific methodology.
What 3 things does cell theory state?
1!. All living things are made up of one or more cells and the materials produced by these celss.
2. All life functions take place in cells, making them the smallest unit of life.
3. All cells are produced from pre-existing cells through th process of cell division.
Who proposed cell theory?
Schleiden and Schwann.
Cell/Plasma Membrane
A protective barrier for the cell: allows the transport of needed materials into the cell and waste materials out; important for cell interations and communication and for recognition of molecules
Cell Wall
found in plants; the cell wall is a rigid frame around the cell that provides strength and support.
Nucleus
The organelle that contains DNA, the genetic material of the cell, and directs all cellular activites; is surrounded by the nuclear enevelope/membrane, which has pores to allow transport of materials into and out of the nucleus.
Chloroplasts
Found in plants and some protists; contain chlorophyll and is the site of photosynthesis
Cytoplasm
a gel-like substance inside the cell membrane that suspends the organelles and contains the nutrients required by the cell to carry on the life proceses
Lysomes
Double membrane sacs within the cell that contain strong digestive enzymes.
Ribosomes
Granules (either floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum) where proteins are produced.
Endoplasmic Reticulum
Note the difference between Endoplasmic Retiulum and Rough Endoplasmic R
A series of tubes extending from the nuclear envelope; rough ER contains ribosomes, associated with protein production and smooth ER, without ribosomes, is associated with lipid(fat) production.
(ER) Endoplasmic Reticulum -
Golgi Bodies/apparatus
Flat disc-shaped sacs involved in packaging substances from the endoplasmic reticulum and transporting them out of the cell.
Vaculoes and Vessicles
Sites for storage of nutrients, products of secretion and water. In plants a large central vacuole swells, increasing turgor pressure.
Mitochondria (mitochondrion=singular)
Rod-like structures that are the site of cellular respiration; where chemical energy stored in food is released in a usable form (ATP).
