Unit-1: Fundamental unit of life Flashcards
What is the basic unit of life?
Cell
What does the cell theory state?
All living organisms are made of cells, cells are the basic unit of life, and all cells come from existing cells
What is a prokaryotic cell?
A cell that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, typically smaller and simpler
What is a eukaryotic cell
A cell that has a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, allowing for more complex functions
What is the function of mitochondria?
They produce ATP through cellular respiration, serving as the energy powerhouse of the cell
What is mitosis?
The process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells
What are the phases of mitosis?
Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis
How is genetic material organized in prokaryotic cells?
It is organized in a single, circular DNA molecule located in the nucleoid region.
How is genetic material organized in eikaryotic cells?
It is organized into multiple linear chromosomes housed within a membrane-bound nucleus.
What is the role of the cytoskeleton?
It provides structural support, maintains cell shape, and facilitates intracellular transport
What processes does the cytoskeleton facilitate?
Cell motility and cell division
What is the cellular compoartmentalization?
The separation of different metabolic processes within distinct organelles in eukaryotic cells
Why is cellular compartmentalization important?
It enhances metabolic efficiency and prevents interference between biochemical reactions
What is the function of the nuclear membrane?
It provides genetic material and regulates the exchange of substances between the nucleus and cytoplasm
How does the nuclear membrane influence gene expression?
It allows for controlled transcription in the nucleus and translation in the cytoplasm
What is the significance of all cells coming from existing cells?
It emphasizes the continuity of life and the shares characteristics of all living organisms
What are organelles?
Specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct functions
What is the role of ribosomes?
They are responsible for protein synthesis
What is the function of the endoplasmic reticulum?
It synthesizes proteins and lipids and transports them within the cell
What is the role of lysosomes
They contain enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris
What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?
It modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles
What is the difference between rough and sooth endoplasmic reticulum?
Rough ER has ribosomes on its surface and synthesizes proteins, while smooth ER lacks ribosomes and synthesizes lipids
What is the function of the plasma membrane?
It regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell
What is the role of chloroplasts?
They are involved in photosynthesis in plant cells
What is the significance of cell differentiation?
It allows cells to develop specialized functions in multicellular organisms
What is apoptosis
The process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms
What is the function of the cytoplasm?
It is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains organelles
How do cells communicate with each other?
Through signaling molecules and receptors on the cell surface
What is the role of the cell wall in plant cells?
It provides structural support and protection
What is the importance of DNA replication?
It ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material during cell division
