Biology Chapter 4 - A Tour of the Cell Flashcards

Study Notes

Microscopy and Cell Theory

Light Microscope: Utilizes visible light passing through specimens to magnify images of microorganisms and thin tissue slices.
Cell Theory: Asserts all living organisms are made of cells; all cells arise from existing cells.
Electron Microscope: Employs a focused beam of electrons, achieving resolutions that can identify structures as small as 2 nanometers.
Scanning Electron Microscope: Examines surface structures in detail, providing 3D-like images of cell surfaces.
Transmission Electron Microscope: Analyzes internal cellular structures through thin sections of specimens.

Cell Structures and Organelles

Plasma Membrane: A protective barrier surrounding all cells, regulating entry and exit of substances.
Chromosomes: Structures that contain genes composed of DNA, essential for genetic information.
Ribosomes: Molecular machines that synthesize proteins from messenger RNA.
Cytoplasm: The viscous fluid inside cells, where biochemical processes take place.
Nucleoid: Region in prokaryotic cells where DNA is localized and coiled.

Functional Cell Components

Flagella: Whip-like structures that facilitate cellular movement.
Nucleus and Organelles: Grouped into functional categories for cellular manufacturing, breakdown of molecules, energy processing, and structural support.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Comprises two types; rough ER has ribosomes, while smooth ER does not, involved in various cell functions.

Energy and Metabolism

Mitochondria: The powerhouse of eukaryotic cells, converting food into ATP through cellular respiration.
ATP: The primary energy carrier in cells, fueling cellular activities.
Chloroplasts: Organelles in photosynthetic organisms, responsible for photosynthesis and energy capture.

Cytoskeletal Components

Cytoskeleton: A network of protein fibers providing cell shape and support; includes microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.
Microfilaments: Composed of actin, they support cell structure and stabilize the membrane.
Intermediate Filaments: Various proteins that anchor organelles and maintain cell integrity.
Microtubules: Hollow tubes controlling cell shape and playing vital roles in transport and division.

Cell Communication and Junctions

Extracellular Matrix (ECM): A network outside the cell that supports tissue structure and facilitates cell communication through glycoproteins.
Integrins: Membrane proteins connecting the ECM with the cytoskeleton, facilitating signaling.
Cell Junctions: Types include tight junctions (prevent leakage), anchoring junctions (hold cells together), and gap junctions (allow intercellular communication).

Plant Cell Features

Cell Wall: A rigid structure made primarily of cellulose, distinguishing plant cells from animal cells and limiting rapid expansion.
Central Vacuole: Functions similarly to lysosomes but is larger in plant cells, storing nutrients and waste products.

Miscellaneous Terms

Endosymbiosis: A biological phenomenon where two organisms live in close proximity to mutual benefit.
Plasmodesmata: Channels in plant cell walls allowing intercellular communication, analogous to gap junctions in animals.
Metazoan: A term for multicellular organisms representing complex biological systems with specialized functions.

Description

Explore key concepts from Biology Chapter 4, 'A Tour of the Cell', through interactive flashcards. This quiz covers essential terminology related to microscopes and cell theory, providing a solid foundation for understanding cellular biology.