Cell Biology: Structures and Processes

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Download our mobile app to listen on the go

Get App

Questions and Answers

A student observes a cell under a microscope and identifies the presence of a cell wall and chloroplasts. Based on these observations, what type of cell is the student most likely observing?

Plant cell.

Explain how the structure of a root hair cell is specifically adapted for its function in absorption.

Root hair cells have a large surface area due to their elongated shape. This increases the area available for absorption of water and mineral ions from the soil.

Describe what happens to enzyme activity as temperature increases significantly beyond its optimum and explain why this occurs.

Enzyme activity decreases as the temperature increases significantly beyond its optimum, because the enzyme denatures. The high temperature causes the enzyme (protein) to change shape, particularly at the active site, preventing substrate binding.

During digestion, large food molecules are broken down into smaller ones. Name the process and explain why it is important for the body.

The process is digestion. It is important because it breaks down large, insoluble molecules into smaller, soluble molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and used by cells for energy, growth, and repair. Signup and view all the answers

Write the general equation for photosynthesis, identifying the reactants and products.

Carbon dioxide + Water -> Glucose + Oxygen (in the presence of light and chlorophyll). Signup and view all the answers

Explain why plants need both xylem and phloem tissues.

Xylem transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves, while phloem transports sugars (produced during photosynthesis) from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Signup and view all the answers

Compare and contrast aerobic and anaerobic respiration in terms of oxygen requirement and energy production.

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and produces a large amount of energy (ATP), while anaerobic respiration does not require oxygen and produces a small amount of energy. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how the alveoli in the lungs are adapted for efficient gas exchange.

Alveoli have a large surface area, thin walls (one cell thick), a dense network of capillaries, and are ventilated to maintain a concentration gradient. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the roles of insulin and glucagon in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis.

Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and converting it to glycogen. Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen into glucose and its release into the blood. Signup and view all the answers

Differentiate between phenotype and genotype, and explain how they are related.

Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism (the specific alleles it carries), while phenotype refers to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism. The phenotype is determined by the genotype and can also be influenced by environmental factors. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Biology?

The study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and the environment.

Movement

An action by an organism causing a change of position or place.