Topic 1 - Organisation, Cells and Microscopy

Question 1

Explain how the main sub-cellular structures are related to their functions.

Answer 1

Each sub-cellular structure is specialised to perform a specific function. For example, the nucleus controls the activities of the cell, the mitochondria perform cellular respiration, and the cell membrane controls the passage of substances in and out of the cell.

Question 2

Describe how the structure of different types of cell relate to their function in a tissue, an organ or organ system, or the whole organism.

Answer 2

Different types of cells have unique structures that enable them to carry out specific functions. For example, red blood cells have a biconcave shape that allows them to carry oxygen. These cells work together to form tissues, which in turn form organs and organ systems.

Question 3

Describe how to produce a slide.

Answer 3

To produce a slide, a thin slice of the specimen is placed on a slide and covered with a coverslip.

Question 4

Describe how to use a microscope to focus on a specimen.

Answer 4

To use a microscope to focus on a specimen, the specimen is placed on the stage and the focus is adjusted using the coarse and fine adjustment knobs.

Question 5

How do you produce a scientific drawing of a specimen?

Answer 5

To produce a scientific drawing of a specimen, the specimen is observed under the microscope and a detailed and accurate drawing is made, labeling all the relevant structures.

Question 6

What is a tissue?

Answer 6

A tissue is a group of cells with a similar structure and function

Question 7

What is an organ?

Answer 7

Organs are aggregations of tissues performing specific functions

Question 8

What is an organ system? And how do they relate to organisms?

Answer 8

Organs are organised into organ systems, which work together to form organisms

Question 9

What is a cell?

Answer 9

Cells are the basic building blocks of all living organisms