Questions and Answers
What are the four parts or regions of the cell that are present in every cell (prokaryotic and eukaryotic)?
Plasma membrane, cytoplasm, DNA, ribosomes
Where is DNA located in a prokaryote?
Nucleoid
What reason does your book give for why prokaryotic cells are so much smaller than eukaryotic cells?
The small size allows for quick diffusion of ions and organic molecules.
What is the function of the nucleus in a cell?
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What is the nuclear envelope?
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What is chromatin?
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What are ribosomes responsible for?
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What is the function of mitochondria?
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What do peroxisomes do?
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What function do lysosomes serve in cells?
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What is the plant cell wall made of?
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What are chloroplasts responsible for?
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What is the central vacuole's role in a cell?
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What is the function of the rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
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What are actin filaments powered by?
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What does the Golgi apparatus do?
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What is the role of intermediate filaments in the cytoskeleton?
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What are microtubules?
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What are eukaryotic cilia and flagella used for?
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Identify structures that all cells have.
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Identify structures that all eukaryotic cells have.
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Identify structures that are unique to plant eukaryotic cells.
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Study Notes
Cell Structure Overview
- Every cell, whether prokaryotic or eukaryotic, contains four essential components: plasma membrane, cytoplasm, DNA, and ribosomes.
- Plasma membrane serves as a barrier, separating cell interior from the environment.
- Cytoplasm is a gel-like substance where cellular components are suspended.
- DNA, the genetic material, encodes the information necessary for cell function.
- Ribosomes are sites of protein synthesis.
Prokaryotic Cells
- Prokaryotic DNA is located in the nucleoid, a central area within the cell.
- The compact size of prokaryotic cells facilitates quick diffusion of ions and organic molecules throughout the cell.
Eukaryotic Cells
- The nucleus is critical for housing DNA and directing ribosome and protein synthesis.
- Nuclear envelope consists of two phospholipid bilayer membranes, forming the outer boundary of the nucleus.
- Chromatin represents unwound complexes of DNA and proteins.
- Ribosomes in eukaryotic cells are also responsible for protein synthesis.
Organelles and Their Functions
- Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell, generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier.
- Peroxisomes are small organelles involved in oxidation reactions, breaking down fatty acids and amino acids, and detoxifying poisons.
- Lysosomes act as the cell's waste disposal system, primarily found in animal cells.
Plant Cell Specifics
- The plant cell wall, composed of cellulose, provides structural support.
- Chloroplasts are organelles involved in photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide, water, and light into glucose and oxygen.
- The central vacuole regulates water concentration within the cell, adapting to environmental changes.
Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Apparatus
- The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) exists in two forms: rough (with ribosomes) and smooth (without ribosomes) and is involved in modifying proteins and lipid synthesis.
- The Golgi apparatus processes and distributes lipids and proteins, acting as a packaging and sorting center.
Cytoskeleton Components
- Actin filaments are dynamic structures involved in motion-related events such as cell division and cytoplasmic streaming.
- Intermediate filaments maintain cell shape and anchor organelles, providing structural support.
- Microtubules are critical for resisting compression, providing transport tracks for vesicles, and facilitating chromosome separation during cell division.
Cell Movement Structures
- Eukaryotic cilia and flagella are hair-like extensions that enable cell movement; cilia are usually numerous and cover the cell surface, while flagella are fewer and longer.
Common Cell Structures
- All cells possess plasma membranes, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and cytoskeletons.
- Eukaryotic cells have additional structures, including nuclei, nucleoli, mitochondria, peroxisomes, vesicles, vacuoles, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.
Unique Structures in Plant Cells
- Unique to plant cells are the cell wall made of cellulose and chloroplasts for photosynthesis.
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Description
Test your knowledge of cell structure with these flashcards focused on Chapter 4 of Biology. Dive into the fundamental components that are present in every cell, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Prepare to identify the key regions and functions critical for cellular life.
