Cell Biology and Structure

The basic unit of life, the smallest unit that can carry out all life processes.

Organisms made of only one cell.

Organisms made of many cells.

The process of creating more organisms of the same kind.

A type of reproduction where one parent produces identical offspring.

A type of reproduction where two parents combine their genetic information to create unique offspring.

The molecule that carries all genetic information.

An increase in size, a key characteristic of life.

A single-celled organism reproduces asexually by dividing into two identical daughter cells.

The process of cell division in eukaryotic cells, where a single parent cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

The first stage of the cell cycle, where the cell grows and prepares for DNA replication.

The second stage of the cell cycle, where the cell's DNA is replicated.

The final stage of the cell cycle, where the cell prepares for division.

The stage of mitosis where the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.

A checkpoint in the cell cycle that ensures the DNA is replicated correctly before the cell enters mitosis.

A state of inactivity where cells exit the cell cycle and stop dividing.

The scientific method is a systematic process used to investigate the natural world, involving observation, questioning, hypothesis formation, experimentation, data collection, analysis, conclusion, and communication.

The scientific method should be a cyclical process because new observations or results from an experiment can lead to new questions and further investigations. This continuous loop of inquiry and testing is essential for advancing scientific knowledge.

Prokaryotes are simple, single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.

Eukaryotes are complex organisms with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, which allow for specialized functions. They can be single-celled or multicellular.

Both plant and animal cells are eukaryotic, meaning they have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They both share basic structures like the cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and DNA.

Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large central vacuole. Animal cells lack these structures.

A cell wall is a rigid outer layer present in plant cells, composed of cellulose. It provides structural support and protection.

Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells that contain chlorophyll, a green pigment essential for photosynthesis. They convert sunlight into energy.