Biology Chapter on Cells

amoeba A unicellular organism.

cell wall The plant cell component that surrounds the cell, providing

support.

cells The smallest functional units in an organism – the building

blocks of life.

chloroplasts The plant cell component where photosynthesis takes place.

concentration A measure of the number of particles of a substance in a given

volume.

diffusion The movement of liquid or gas particles from a place of high

concentration to a place of low concentration.

euglena Unicellular organism that performs photosynthesis.

flagellum A tail-like structure that allows euglenas to move.

leaf cell The plant cells that contain chloroplasts, where photosynthesis

takes place.

microscope An optical instrument used to magnify objects, so small details

can be seen clearly.

nerve cell An animal cell that transmits electrical impulses around the

body.

nucleus The cell component that controls the cell and contains genetic

material.

observation Carefully looking at an object or process.

organisms Living things.

red blood cell An animal cell that transports oxygen around the body.

root hair cell A plant cell that takes in water and minerals from the soil.

specialised cell A cell whose shape and structure enable it to perform a

particular function.

sperm cell A cell containing male genetic material.

unicellular Consisting of just one cell.

vacuole The plant cell component that contains cell sap and helps to

keep the cell firm.