Prokaryotic Cells and Organelles Flashcards
Describe the features of the cytoplasm found in prokaryotic cells.
- Contains no membrane bound organelles
- Has ribosomes, but are much smaller compared to eukaryotic ribosomes.
Describe the structure of the plasma membrane.
- Same as eukaryotic cell
- Mainly made of lipids and proteins
Describe the function of the plasma membrane.
- Controls movement of substances in and out of cells.
Describe the function of the cell wall.
It supports the cell and prevents it changing shape.
Describe the structure of the cell wall.
It is made of murein (a glycoprotein)
Describe the function of the pili.
Help prokaryotes stick to other cells and can be used to transfer genetic material between cells.
Describe the function of the slime capsule.
Protects bacteria from attack from cells of the immune system.
Describe the structure of the flagellum.
A long hair-like structure
Describe the function of the flagellum.
It rotates to make the prokaryotic cell move. It is not present on all prokaryotic/bacterial cells
Describe the DNA contained in prokaryotic cells.
A prokaryotic cell does not have a nucleus so DNA floats free in the cytoplasm. The DNA is not attached to any histone proteins.
Describe the structure of a plasmid.
They are small loops of DNA that are separated from the free floating DNA. However, they are not always present.
Describe the function of a plasmid.
They usually contain genes that benefit the bacterial cell. For example, antibiotic resistance.
Describe the structure of a mesosome.
They are inward folds in the cell (plasma) membrane.
Describe the function of a mesosome.
It is believed that they play a role in various cellular processes. It is also believed that they are not actually present in bacterial cells until they are being prepped for viewing with an electron microscope.
Describe the structure of the mitochondria.
It is rod-shaped ad has a double membrane (inner and outer layer). The inner membrane is folded to form cristae and the matrix (the inside of the inner membrane) contains lipids. proteins, ribosomes, loops of DNA and enzymes that are involved in respiration.
