Biology Chapter 3 Cell Parts Flashcards

Cellular Components and Functions

• Ribosome: Small RNA-containing particles crucial for protein synthesis, utilize genetic information from DNA in the nucleus.
• Cytoplasm: The gel-like substance filling the area between the cell membrane and nucleus, where organelles are located.
• Nuclear Envelope: Double membrane structure that separates the contents of the nucleus from the cytoplasm, controlling material exchange.
• Microfilaments: Composed of tiny rods, they create meshworks or bundles that assist in cell contraction and movement.
• Centrosome: Nonmembranous organelle that contains centrioles, pivotal for cell division.

Energy and Recycling

• Mitochondria: Known as the powerhouses of the cell, they convert food molecules into energy, break down fatty acids, and recycle cellular components.
• Lysosomes: Membranous sacs filled with digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.
• Peroxisomes: Enzymatic organelles that catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, aiding in detoxification.

Cellular Structures and Motility

• Cilia: Short, motile extensions on cell surfaces, involved in the movement of fluids across the membrane; numerous in number.
• Microtubule: Slender tubes that facilitate movement in cilia and flagella, also a key component of the cytoskeleton providing structural support.
• Microvilli: Nonmembranous projections that increase surface area for absorption, particularly prevalent in intestinal cells.

Genetic Material and Ribosome Synthesis

• Nucleoplasm: The viscous fluid within the nucleus, housing chromatin and nucleolus.
• Chromatin: Loosely coiled fibers of DNA and proteins found within the nucleus, crucial for gene expression and DNA replication.
• Nucleolus: Dense structure in the nucleus responsible for synthesizing ribosomal RNA and assembling ribosomal subunits.

Cellular Transport and Packaging

• Vesicle/Vacuole: Membranous sacs formed from the membrane that can transport or store substances within the cell.
• Golgi Apparatus: Stack of flattened membrane sacs involved in packaging, modifying, and distributing proteins and lipids within the cell.

Membrane and Structural Elements

• Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane): Selective barrier that surrounds the cell, regulating the entry and exit of substances.
• Inclusions: Various cellular products like pigments (e.g., melanin), which are not membrane-bound and serve specialized functions.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Variants

• Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER): Composed of membrane-bound sacs and vesicles involved in the synthesis of lipids and metabolism of carbohydrates.
• Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER): Similar structure to SER, but studded with ribosomes, playing a key role in protein synthesis and processing.

Cell Structure and Organization

• Nucleus: Spherical organelle that houses chromatin and nucleolus, the control center of the cell.
• Centrioles: Paired structures that are essential for organizing microtubules during cell division, facilitating proper chromosome separation.
• Cytoskeleton: Network of protein filaments and tubules providing the cell with shape, support, and facilitating movement.

Test your knowledge of the essential components of cells with these flashcards from Biology Chapter 3. Each card covers a key term related to cell structure, including organelles and their functions. Perfect for revision or quick quizzes.