Biology Quiz on Hormones and Alkaloids
89 Questions
7 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of hormones in animals?

  • To produce energy for the organism.
  • To provide structural support to cells.
  • To control all biochemical activities of the organism. (correct)
  • To transport nutrients to different parts of the body.
  • What are the building blocks of alkaloids in plants?

  • Fatty acids
  • Amino acids (correct)
  • Nucleotides
  • Cholesterol
  • Which of these is a characteristic of plant hormones (growth regulators)?

  • They are primarily produced in reproductive organs.
  • They are transported via the vascular system only.
  • They control only the reproductive growth of the plant.
  • They are produced in metabolically active cells. (correct)
  • From which of the following precursor molecule are steroids synthesized?

    <p>Cholesterol (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of biomolecule can hormones be?

    <p>Proteins, peptides or steroids. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of an alkaloid derived from a medicinal plant?

    <p>Quinine. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following options lists only glands responsible for producing steroids?

    <p>Ovaries, testes, placenta, and adrenal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Besides water, which of these is a common element in alkaloids, steroids and hormones?

    <p>Nitrogen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of ATP in active transport?

    <p>To provide the energy required for movement of substances against their concentration gradient. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process involves the intake of solid particles by a cell?

    <p>Phagocytosis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main structural component of the bacterial cell wall?

    <p>Peptidoglycan (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of plasmodesmata in plant cells?

    <p>To connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following structures is responsible for oxidizing pyruvic acid to release energy?

    <p>Mitochondrion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of plastid is responsible for the green color in plant cells?

    <p>Chloroplast (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the middle lamella primarily composed of?

    <p>Calcium pectate (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following processes involves the movement of molecules from their higher concentration to lower concentration?

    <p>Passive diffusion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes pinocytosis from phagocytosis?

    <p>Pinocytosis involves intake of fluid droplets. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cell organelle is responsible for photosynthesis?

    <p>Chloroplast (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of cristae within a mitochondrion?

    <p>To increase the surface area for cellular respiration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of the cell wall?

    <p>To provide rigidity and protection to the cell. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the sac-like structures within chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll called?

    <p>Thylakoids (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the matrix in mitochondria?

    <p>It is an inner fluid-filled compartment of the mitochondria where the pyruvic acid is directly oxidized. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the cell theory state regarding the origin of cells?

    <p>Cells arise from pre-existing cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of molecules are transported through bulk transport?

    <p>Large molecules (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

    <p>They lack organelles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organelle is responsible for energy production in eukaryotic cells?

    <p>Mitochondria (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?

    <p>To regulate the entry and exit of substances (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following components is NOT commonly found in plant cells?

    <p>Centrioles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do animal cells primarily differ from plant cells in structure?

    <p>Animal cells lack a cell wall. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of cell is characterized by the presence of a nucleus?

    <p>Eukaryotic cell (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following cellular components is primarily involved in protein synthesis?

    <p>Ribosomes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of lysosomes in a cell?

    <p>Performing intracellular digestion and waste removal (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes why lysosomes are referred to as 'suicidal bags'?

    <p>They can digest a cell's own material when it's damaged or dead. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cellular process are peroxisomes primarily involved in?

    <p>Oxidation of substrates resulting in hydrogen peroxide formation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In plant cells, what role do glyoxysomes play?

    <p>Conversion of lipids to carbohydrates during germination. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of cilia and flagella in cells?

    <p>Cellular movement and creating fluid flow (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the arrangement of microtubules in cilia and flagella?

    <p>9 sets of peripheral microtubules and one central set. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What structural feature distinguishes centrioles from cilia and flagella?

    <p>Centrioles have nine sets of peripheral triplets, while cilia and flagella have nine sets of peripheral doublets. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of chromosomes during cell division?

    <p>To ensure the daughter cells receive identical hereditary material. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where are centrioles typically located within a cell?

    <p>Just outside the nucleus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the composition of the nucleolus?

    <p>DNA, RNA, and proteins. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of centrioles during cell division?

    <p>Organizing the mitotic spindle (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the relationship between the nucleus and cytoplasm?

    <p>The nucleus and cytoplasm are interdependent and interact. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of basal bodies in relation to cilia and flagella?

    <p>They give rise to cilia and flagella. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of water in the cell?

    <p>To serve as a medium for metabolic reactions and maintain cell turgidity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which elements are primarily needed for the formation of organic compounds in a cell?

    <p>Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the nucleus of a cell?

    <p>It is a membrane-bound organelle, containing genetic material and controls cell activities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the nuclear membrane in a cell?

    <p>Regulates the transport of materials in and out of the nucleus and maintains separation of hereditary material. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of monosaccharides?

    <p>They are simple six-carbon sugars like glucose. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of chromatin within the nucleus?

    <p>Carrying genetic information (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of carbohydrates in both plants and animals?

    <p>To provide a source of energy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the 'R' group in an amino acid?

    <p>It gives each of the 20 different amino acids its unique identity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between heterochromatin and euchromatin?

    <p>Heterochromatin has less DNA and is genetically less active than euchromatin. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of cell division results in genetically identical daughter cells for growth and repair?

    <p>Mitosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do plants create amino acids?

    <p>By utilizing inorganic nitrogen from their surroundings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of bond is formed when amino acids join to create protein molecules?

    <p>Peptide bond. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a primary structure of a protein?

    <p>The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of RNA molecules in the cell?

    <p>To be involved in information transfer and protein synthesis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do fats store more energy compared to carbohydrates?

    <p>Due to their lower content of oxygen. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of a fat soluble-vitamin?

    <p>They are needed in the diet of animals for healthy growth. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does vitamin K play in the human body?

    <p>It is produced by bacteria in the human intestine. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of chloroplasts?

    <p>To trap solar energy and convert it into complex molecules. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes the relationship between mitochondria and chloroplasts?

    <p>They are opposite in function; one traps energy, the other releases it. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does it mean for mitochondria and chloroplasts, to be described as 'semi-autonomous'?

    <p>They can self-duplicate but depend on the cell for survival. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organelle is primarily responsible for the synthesis of proteins within a cell?

    <p>Ribosomes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What function is primarily associated with the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?

    <p>Steroid synthesis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the location and structure of ribosomes?

    <p>They are small molecules composed of RNA and protein, and are present free in cytoplasm or attached to the ER. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the Golgi body?

    <p>To secrete and modify substances. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the dictyosomes?

    <p>The name given to the Golgi body in plant cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

    <p>Waste breakdown. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are lysosomes primarily responsible for within a cell?

    <p>Breaking down cellular components. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these structures is involved in intracellular transport?

    <p>Endoplasmic reticulum (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the structural relationship between the ER and the cell membrane?

    <p>The ER is in contact with the cell membrane. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?

    <p>RER has ribosomes attached to it, while SER does not. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 80S and 70S refer to when describing ribosomes?

    <p>Different types and sizes of ribosomes found in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a function of the Golgi body?

    <p>Modifying substances to give rise to other membrane structures such as lysosomes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following correctly describes a prokaryotic cell?

    <p>Lacks membrane-bound organelles. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organelle is present in plant cells but absent in animal cells?

    <p>Chloroplasts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of transport requires energy to move molecules across the plasma membrane?

    <p>Active transport (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of ribosomes is found in eukaryotic cells?

    <p>80 S (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells?

    <p>Presence of a nuclear membrane (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of vacuoles in plant cells?

    <p>Storage of nutrients and waste products (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which cellular structure is genetic material found in prokaryotic cells?

    <p>Nucleoid (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of cell division primarily occurs in prokaryotic cells?

    <p>Binary fission (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of the fluid mosaic model?

    <p>Proteins are embedded in a flexible lipid bilayer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main role of ribosomes in cells?

    <p>Protein synthesis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is not a function of the plasma membrane?

    <p>ATP production (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component is absent in animal cells but present in plant cells?

    <p>Cell wall (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do small molecules typically move across the plasma membrane?

    <p>By diffusion, osmosis, or active transport. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    What is a cell?

    The smallest unit of life that can function independently. It is the building block of all living organisms.

    What is the Cell Theory?

    A theory stating that all living organisms are composed of cells, that cells are the basic functional unit of life, and that all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

    What are prokaryotic cells?

    Cells that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

    What are eukaryotic cells?

    Cells that have a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the cell wall?

    A rigid outer layer that provides structural support and protection to plant cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the plasma membrane?

    A thin, flexible outer layer that surrounds all cells and controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

    A network of interconnected membranes that helps in the synthesis and transportation of proteins and lipids.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the nucleus?

    The control center of the cell, containing DNA and responsible for regulating cellular activity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is cytoplasm?

    A jelly-like substance that fills the cell and contains various organelles.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are prokaryotes?

    Organisms without a well-defined nucleus, such as bacteria.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are eukaryotes?

    Organisms with a well-defined nucleus, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the fluid mosaic model?

    A model that describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a fluid layer with proteins embedded in it.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are peripheral proteins?

    Proteins located on the outer or inner surfaces of the lipid bilayer in the plasma membrane.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are integral proteins?

    Proteins that are embedded in the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane, sometimes spanning across it.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is diffusion?

    The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, without requiring energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is osmosis?

    The movement of water molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration through a semipermeable membrane, without requiring energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is active transport?

    The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are vacuoles?

    Large, fluid-filled sacs found in plant cells, storing water, nutrients, and waste.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are plastids?

    Organelles found in plant cells that are responsible for photosynthesis.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is phagocytosis?

    A process where a cell engulfs large particles or even other cells. Imagine a Pac-Man eating a dot.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is pinocytosis?

    A process where a cell takes in tiny droplets of fluid. Imagine a tiny cup sucking up a tiny drink.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is exocytosis?

    The process where substances are released from the cell. Think of a package being delivered outside the house.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the plant cell wall made of?

    The outermost layer in plant cells, providing structure and protection. Imagine the cell wall as a sturdy brick wall.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are mitochondria, and what is their main function?

    Tiny thread-like organelles found in both plants and animals. They are the powerhouses of the cell, converting food into usable energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are chloroplasts, and what is their main function?

    Organelles found only in plant cells, responsible for photosynthesis. Imagine solar panels capturing sunlight to make energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the stroma?

    A fluid medium inside the chloroplast, similar to cytoplasm. Think of the liquid filling a container.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are grana?

    Stacks of flattened sacs inside chloroplasts. Think of a pile of pancakes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are thylakoids?

    Flattened sacs inside chloroplasts, responsible for capturing light energy. Imagine a thin sheet capturing sunlight.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is photosynthesis?

    The process of converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of sugar. Imagine sunlight being used to make food.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are leucoplasts, and what is their main function?

    A type of plastid that is white or colorless, found in roots and other non-photosynthetic parts of plants. They store starch as energy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are chromoplasts, and what is their main function?

    A type of plastid that is colored, giving fruits and flowers their vibrant colors. Imagine colored pigments in plants.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a cell organelle?

    A specialized structure within a cell that performs a specific function.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Name the chemical storing energy for the cell.

    ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the energy currency of the cell. It stores energy in its chemical bonds, which can be released when needed.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Where does the light reaction occur in chloroplasts?

    The grana (stacks of thylakoids) within chloroplasts are the sites of the light-dependent reactions.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are the sac-like structures forming the grana?

    Thylakoids are the small, disc-shaped sacs that stack to form grana in chloroplasts.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why is mitochondria called the "energy currency" of the cell?

    Mitochondria are called the powerhouses of the cell because they are responsible for producing ATP, the primary energy source for most cellular activities.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Which organelle contains enzymes for cellular respiration?

    Mitochondria contain enzymes that carry out cellular respiration, breaking down glucose to generate ATP.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    State two similarities between mitochondria and chloroplast.

    Both mitochondria and chloroplasts have their own DNA and ribosomes, allowing them to replicate themselves independently to some extent. Both also have a double membrane structure.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Which plastids give color to flower petals?

    Chromoplasts are plastids responsible for storing pigments that give color to flowers and fruits.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Which plastid is green in color?

    Chloroplasts are plastids containing chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why are mitochondria and chloroplast called semi-autonomous?

    Mitochondria and chloroplasts are considered semi-autonomous because they have their own DNA and ribosomes, allowing them to replicate independently. However, they still depend on the cell for some essential functions.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Explain the structure of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).

    The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an extensive network of interconnected membranes that serve as a transport system within the cell. The rough ER (RER) has ribosomes attached to it, while the smooth ER (SER) lacks ribosomes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the equivalent structure of Golgi body in plants?

    Dictyosomes are the equivalent of Golgi bodies in plant cells. They are smaller and more numerous than Golgi bodies in animal cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Mention two advantages of the extensive network of endoplasmic reticulum?

    The extensive network of the ER provides a large surface area for protein synthesis and facilitates the transport of molecules throughout the cell.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Where are ribosomes located in a cell?

    Ribosomes are found in the cytoplasm, attached to the ER (RER), and within the nucleolus.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Name the membrane system that connects the nuclear membrane with the cell membrane?

    The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) forms a continuous membrane system that connects the nuclear membrane with the cell membrane.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are Hormones?

    Chemical messengers produced by glands in animals. They control bodily functions by acting on specific target cells, even at low concentrations.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are Steroids?

    Organic compounds synthesized from cholesterol, primarily in the reproductive organs and adrenal glands. Examples are testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are Alkaloids?

    Organic molecules found in plants, often in the form of bitter tasting compounds, with diverse physiological effects. Alkaloids like morphine, quinine, and ephedrine are derived from plants.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How are Alkaloids synthesized?

    Complex organic compounds synthesized from amino acids in plants. These compounds play a crucial role in plant defense, growth, and development.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are Hormones?

    These are specific organic substances, usually proteins or peptides, that are secreted by a cell or gland and exert a specific effect on other cells or tissues.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are hormones in plants?

    Plant hormones, also known as growth regulators, are produced in metabolically active cells. They control the vegetative and reproductive growth of the plant.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Cell division and heredity

    The process by which cells divide, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the parent cell's genetic material.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a nucleolus?

    A small, spherical body present in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells except in sperms and some algae. It is involved in the synthesis of ribosomes, which are crucial for protein production.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Role of water in a cell

    Water is essential for life, acting as a solvent for many biological reactions, a medium for transport, and a regulator of temperature.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Elements essential for life

    These elements are crucial components of organic compounds and play important roles in various physiological processes, including energy transfer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are carbohydrates?

    Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy for cells. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and are classified into monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are proteins?

    Proteins are complex macromolecules that are vital for various cellular functions, including structure, catalysis, and transport. They are composed of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are nucleic acids?

    Nucleic acids are polymers composed of nucleotides, carrying genetic information, and playing a crucial role in protein synthesis. DNA holds the blueprint, while RNA acts as a messenger.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are fats/lipids?

    Fats, also known as lipids, are a primary source of energy storage in cells. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and are classified as saturated or unsaturated.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are vitamins?

    Vitamins are essential organic compounds that are required for the healthy growth and development of animals. They are categorized into water-soluble and fat-soluble types.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is chromatin?

    A network of long, thin strands composed of DNA and proteins. It is found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and condenses into chromosomes during cell division.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are chromosomes?

    These are tightly packed, condensed structures made of DNA and proteins. They carry genetic information and are visible during cell division.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Function of the nucleolus

    The nucleolus is a dense region within the nucleus responsible for synthesizing ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis, the process of turning genetic information into functional proteins.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why can't a cell survive without the nucleus?

    The nucleus is the control center of the cell, containing the cell's genetic information (DNA). It regulates cellular activities such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is nucleocytoplasmic interaction?

    The interaction between the nucleus and the cytoplasm involves the exchange of information and materials between the nucleus and the surrounding cytosol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are lysosomes?

    Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing powerful digestive enzymes. These enzymes break down various cellular components, including debris, pathogens, and worn-out organelles, making them crucial for maintaining cell health and efficiency.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why are lysosomes called 'suicidal bags'?

    Lysosomes are nicknamed "suicidal bags" because their enzymes can digest the cell's own contents if the cell is damaged or dying. This process, called autolysis, helps clear out damaged or unnecessary parts and prevent harmful substances from spreading to other cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    List the functions of lysosomes.

    Lysosomes play various roles in the cell, including digestion of food particles for cell nutrition, defense against invading pathogens, removal of damaged cellular debris, recycling of cellular components, providing energy during starvation, aiding sperm cells in fertilization, and facilitating the breakdown of cellular components in old, diseased, or injured cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are peroxisomes?

    Peroxisomes are small, membrane-bound organelles present in both plant and animal cells. They are involved in various metabolic processes, including the breakdown of fatty acids and the detoxification of harmful molecules.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the function of peroxisomes in fat metabolism?

    Peroxisomes play a vital role in breaking down fatty acids and producing hydrogen peroxide as a byproduct. This peroxide is then broken down by an enzyme called catalase, preventing damage to the cell.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are glyoxysomes?

    Glyoxysomes are specialized peroxisomes found in plant cells, particularly in oil-rich seeds during germination. They contain enzymes that convert stored lipids (fats) into carbohydrates, providing energy for the growing seedling.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are cilia and flagella?

    Cilia and flagella are hair-like projections that extend from the cell surface. They are involved in movement, helping the cell propel itself or move fluids around the cell.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are cilia?

    Cilia are short, hair-like structures found in large numbers on the surface of some cells. They beat rhythmically, like tiny oars, to create a current that propels the cell or moves fluids past the cell.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are flagella?

    Flagella are longer, whip-like structures found in some cells. They generate a wave-like motion that propels the cell through its environment.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the structure of cilia and flagella?

    Both cilia and flagella are composed of microtubules, protein filaments arranged in a specific pattern known as the 9+2 arrangement. This structure allows for their characteristic movements.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are centrioles?

    Centrioles are small, cylindrical structures found in animal cells. They are involved in the formation of spindle fibers during cell division, which help separate chromosomes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are basal bodies?

    Basal bodies are structures similar to centrioles. They are located at the base of cilia and flagella, anchoring these organelles to the cell and providing a point of attachment for microtubules.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the nuclear membrane?

    The nuclear membrane, also known as the nuclear envelope, surrounds the nucleus and regulates the passage of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm. It is a double membrane with pores that allow for selective transport of molecules.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Cell Structure and Function

    • Cells are the basic structural and functional units of all organisms.
    • Some organisms (bacteria, protozoa, some algae) have one cell, while others (fungi, plants, animals) have many.
    • The human body is composed of approximately one trillion cells.
    • Cells vary in size and structure, specializing in diverse functions, but all share common basic components.

    Cell Theory

    • Landmarks in Cell Study:
      • Robert Hooke (1665) observed cork cells using a microscope.
      • Anton van Leeuwenhoek (1672) observed bacteria, sperm, and red blood cells.
      • Robert Brown (1831) discovered the cell nucleus.
    • Cell Theory (1838, Schleiden & Schwann):
      • All organisms are composed of cells.
      • The cell is the fundamental unit of structure and function in living organisms.
      • Cells arise from pre-existing cells.

    Cell Types: Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic

    • Prokaryotic Cells:
      • Lack a defined nucleus (nucleoid region).
      • DNA is circular and free-floating in the cytoplasm.
      • Lack membrane-bound organelles.
      • Smaller ribosomes (70S).
      • Mainly unicellular.
      • Cell division is binary fission.
    • Eukaryotic Cells:
      • Have a distinct nucleus with a nuclear membrane.
      • DNA is linear and located within the nucleus.
      • Possess membrane-bound organelles.
      • Larger ribosomes (80S).
      • Commonly multicellular (exceptions exist).
      • Cell division involves mitosis or meiosis (with spindle formation).

    Cell Components: Comparing Plant and Animal Cells

    • Plant Cells:
      • Contain a cell wall made of cellulose.
      • Larger vacuoles (storage).
      • Plastids (e.g., chloroplasts) present.
      • Golgi bodies as dictyosomes (modified structure).
      • Lack centrioles.
    • Animal Cells:
      • Lack a cell wall.
      • Smaller or no vacuoles.
      • Lack plastids.
      • Well-developed Golgi bodies.
      • Contain centrioles.

    Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane)

    • Structure (Fluid Mosaic Model):
      • Phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
      • Hydrophilic heads face outwards; hydrophobic tails face inwards.
      • Peripheral (extrinsic) and integral (intrinsic) proteins.
    • Functions:
      • Encloses cell contents.
      • Determines cell shape (animals).
      • Selectively permeable (regulates substance entry/exit).
    • Transport Mechanisms:
      • Passive: Diffusion (high to low concentration), osmosis (water movement).
      • Active: Transport against concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP).
    • Bulk Transport:
      • Endocytosis: Phagocytosis (solid particles), pinocytosis (fluid droplets)
      • Exocytosis: Removal of substances from the cell.

    Cell Wall

    • Plant Cell Wall:
      • Non-living, outermost layer.
      • Composed mostly of cellulose.
      • Provides structural support and shape.
      • Allows water passage.
      • Connected by plasmodesmata.
      • Joined by middle lamella (calcium pectate; cementing material).

    Cytoplasm and Organelles

    • Mitochondria:
      • Double membrane structure with cristae (inner folds).
      • Site of cellular respiration (glucose breakdown to ATP).
    • Chloroplasts:
      • Double membrane structure with thylakoids (grana).
      • Site of photosynthesis (sugar production).
    • Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
      • Network of membranes; rough (RER) and smooth (SER).
      • Involved in protein synthesis (RER), steroid synthesis (SER), and transport.
    • Ribosomes:
      • Involved in protein synthesis.
      • Free or attached to ER.
    • Golgi Body:
      • Stack of membranes involved in secretion and modification of materials.
      • Plant cells have "dictyosomes."
    • Lysosomes:
      • "Suicidal bags" containing enzymes for intracellular digestion and recycling.
    • Peroxisomes:
      • Involved in oxidation reactions and breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.
    • Glyoxysomes:
      • Found in plant cells; convert lipids to carbohydrates.
    • Cilia and Flagella:
      • Motile structures made of microtubules (9+2 arrangement).

    Nucleus

    • Structure:
      • Double membrane (nuclear envelope) with pores for transport.
      • Chromatin (condenses to form chromosomes).
      • Nucleolus (involved in ribosome production).
    • Functions:
      • Controls cell activities.
      • Contains genetic material (DNA).
      • Involved in cell division (mitosis, meiosis).

    Cell Molecules

    • Inorganic: Water, mineral ions.

    • Organic: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, vitamins, hormones, alkaloids, steroids.

      • Carbohydrates:
    • Monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides (e.g., starch, cellulose).

    • Energy source and structural components.

      • Lipids:
    • Fats and oils (energy storage). Phospholipids (membrane components). Steroids (hormones).

      • Proteins:
    • Composed of amino acids; diverse structures and functions (enzymes, structural proteins).

      • Nucleic Acids:
    • DNA (genetic material) and RNA (involved in protein synthesis).

      • Vitamins:
    • Essential organic compounds for various bodily functions.

    Summary Table (Key Differences) - Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic

    Feature Prokaryotic Eukaryotic
    Nucleus Absent (nucleoid) Present
    DNA Circular Linear
    Organelles Few, if any Numerous
    Ribosomes 70S 80S
    Cell division Binary fission Mitosis/Meiosis

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Test your knowledge on the functions of hormones in animals and the building blocks of alkaloids in plants. This quiz covers the characteristics of plant hormones and the synthesis of steroids, among other related topics. Perfect for biology students looking to deepen their understanding.

    More Like This

    Hormones and Their Functions Quiz
    30 questions
    Classes of Hormones Flashcards
    11 questions
    Hormones Classification Flashcards
    19 questions
    Hormones and the Endocrine System
    12 questions
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser