Cell Biology Study Notes

Study Notes

Cell Biology Study Notes

Basic Unit of Life: The cell is the fundamental unit of life.
Cell Structure:
- Cell membrane: Controls what enters and leaves the cell.
- Cytoplasm: Jelly-like substance inside the cell.
- Nucleus: Controls cell activities.
- Mitochondria: Produces energy.
- Chloroplasts: Capture sunlight for photosynthesis (plants only).
- Cell wall: Provides shape and support (plants only).
- Ribosomes: Involved in protein synthesis.
- Endoplasmic reticulum: Transports materials within the cell.
- Golgi apparatus: Involved in processing and packaging materials.
- Vacuoles: Storage compartments, particularly important in plant cells.
Cell Types:
- Prokaryotic cells: Lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
- Eukaryotic cells: Contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Cell Processes:
- Osmosis: Movement of water across a membrane.
- Photosynthesis: Conversion of light energy into chemical energy (plants only).
- Protein Synthesis: Process of creating proteins guided by genetic instructions.
Cell Function:
- Cells maintain homeostasis.
- Cells carry out similar functions to form tissues.
Cell Importance:
- Essential for the structure and function of all living things.
- Cells contribute to the overall functioning of tissues and organs.
- Enable growth, repair, and reproduction.
Cell Specialization: Multicellular organisms have specialized cells adapted for specific tasks.
Cell Division: Responsible for growth and repair.
Stem Cells: Undifferentiated cells with the potential to develop into various cell types.
Cell Size: Size of cells relates to their function due to surface area-to-volume ratio.
External Factors:
- Environmental factors can impact cell function and process.
Cell Theory:
- All living things are made of cells.
- Cells are the basic unit of life.
- Cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Cell Study Techniques: Techniques used to study the internal structure and function of cells.