Biology Chapter: Cell Structure and Function

Environmental factors that can cause mutations in DNA, potentially leading to cancer. Examples include cigarette smoke.

A technique to identify potentially cancerous moles, focusing on four key characteristics: Asymmetry (irregular shape), Border (uneven edges), Color (variation), and Diameter (larger than 6 mm).

Specialized cells with a long, thin, branching structure that allows them to transmit electrical impulses throughout the body, enabling communication between neurons and tissues.

Cells capable of differentiating into any type of specialized cell, found in early embryos.

Cells found in adult tissues that can only differentiate into a limited number of specialized cell types. For example, bone marrow stem cells can become red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Organelles are the tiny structures inside a cell that have specific jobs, just like the organs in our bodies! They are responsible for keeping the cell alive and functioning.

The cell membrane is like a bouncer at a club, allowing only certain things to pass through. It controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

The cytoplasm is like a jelly-like substance that holds all the other organelles in place. It's where many chemical reactions happen.

The nucleus is like the brain of the cell, controlling all the cell's activities. It houses the DNA, which is the genetic blueprint of the cell.

The cell wall is like a sturdy wall that provides support and protection for the plant cell. It's only found in plant cells.

Chloroplasts are like tiny solar panels in plant cells. They capture sunlight and use it to make food (sugar) through photosynthesis.

One of the main reasons cells divide is for growth. For example, a tiny seed needs to grow into a big plant, so cells must divide to create more cells!

Another main reason cells divide is for repair. When we get a cut, cells divide to replace the damaged cells and heal the wound.

The movement of a substance across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Diffusion occurs across organelle membranes (like the mitochondria and nucleus) and the cell membrane.

Diffusion takes place between capillaries and cells, between capillaries and alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs), and between cells themselves.

Mitosis is the division of the genetic material (DNA), while cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm and the physical separation of the two new cells.

Interphase is the period of growth and DNA replication in the cell cycle. During this phase, the cell grows, copies its DNA, and prepares for mitosis.

Prophase is the first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and spindle fibers start forming.

In plants, a cell plate forms between the two daughter cells, while in animals, a cleavage furrow forms and pinches the cell membrane.

Cancer can be caused by random mutations in DNA during replication, or by oncogenes, which are genes that increase the risk of developing certain cancers.

A type of tissue that connects different structures in the body. It consists of a matrix of fibers and liquid, providing support, protection, and structure.

A type of tissue made of long, thin, and branching cells responsible for sending and receiving electrical impulses throughout the body.

A type of tissue made of long cells bundled together, capable of contracting and relaxing, enabling movement.

A type of tissue composed of tightly packed thin sheets of cells, providing protection against dehydration and creating a low-friction surface.

The process of smooth muscle contractions that push food through the digestive system, starting from the mouth to the anus.

tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, allowing oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to exit.

A type of blood cell responsible for carrying oxygen to the body's cells and transporting carbon dioxide away.

The process of moving oxygen from the lungs to the blood and carbon dioxide from the blood to the lungs, enabling the delivery of oxygen to cells and the removal of waste products.

Small, branching air tubes that connect the trachea to the alveoli in the lungs. They help transport air to and from the alveoli.

The system responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products throughout the body via blood.

The system responsible for breaking down food into smaller molecules (nutrients) the body can absorb and use for energy.

The system responsible for providing movement and support to the body. It includes bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

A specialized tissue that lines the trachea and bronchi, playing a vital role in protecting the respiratory system from harmful substances. It secretes mucus to trap particles and warms and moistens incoming air, while cilia sweep mucus and trapped particles upwards for expulsion.

The circulatory system is made up of three key components: blood, the heart, and blood vessels. Each component works together to transport essential nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, while also removing waste products.

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. They are small, smooth cells with a unique protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen molecules. They are also responsible for carrying carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs.

White blood cells are the body's defenders against invading bacteria and viruses. They are larger than red blood cells and possess a nucleus. They actively seek and destroy harmful microorganisms, protecting your body from infections.

Platelets are tiny cell fragments that play a critical role in blood clotting. When a blood vessel is damaged, platelets quickly gather at the site and help to form a clot, preventing further blood loss.

Plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of its volume. It is rich in proteins and carries essential nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. It helps maintain blood pressure and regulate body temperature.

Tendons are strong, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. When muscles contract, they pull on tendons, which in turn move the attached bones. Muscles can only pull, not push, so they work in coordinated groups to create movement.

The central nervous system (CNS) is the control center of the body, consisting of the brain and spinal cord. It processes information from the environment, sends signals to the body, and coordinates complex functions like thinking, feeling, and moving. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is a network of nerves that connect the CNS to the rest of the body, allowing communication between the brain and the organs and tissues.