[Unit 3.1] | Methods Of Studying Cells Flashcards

1
Q

What 2 key methods are used to study cells?

A

• Microscopy
• Cell fractionation

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2
Q

What equation can be used to find the magnification of an image?

A

• Magnification = Image Size / Actual Size
• (Remember IAM triangle)

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3
Q

Define magnification.

A

• How many times bigger an image is relative to an object.

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4
Q

Define resolution.

A

• The minimum distance between 2 objects that enables them to appear as distinct objects.

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5
Q

Describe the process of cell fractionation.

A
  1. Cell tissue must first be placed in a cold, isotonic, buffered solution.
  2. Homogenation: Cells homogenised to release organelles.
    • The resulting fluid (homogenate) is filtered to remove large pieces of debris.
  3. 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).
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6
Q

What does buffered mean?

A

Constant pH. (To prevent structural damage of tissue / cells).

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