[Unit 3.1] | Methods Of Studying Cells Flashcards
1
Q
What 2 key methods are used to study cells?
A
• Microscopy
• Cell fractionation
2
Q
What equation can be used to find the magnification of an image?
A
• Magnification = Image Size / Actual Size
• (Remember IAM triangle)
3
Q
Define magnification.
A
• How many times bigger an image is relative to an object.
4
Q
Define resolution.
A
• The minimum distance between 2 objects that enables them to appear as distinct objects.
5
Q
Describe the process of cell fractionation.
A
- Cell tissue must first be placed in a cold, isotonic, buffered solution.
- Homogenation: Cells homogenised to release organelles.
• The resulting fluid (homogenate) is filtered to remove large pieces of debris. - Ultracentrifugation: Tubes of homogenate spun slowly in a centrifuge.
• Heaviest organelles gather in a pellet.
• Fluid (supernatant) removed to repeat for lighter organelles (with an increase in speed).
6
Q
What does buffered mean?
A
Constant pH. (To prevent structural damage of tissue / cells).