Cell Theory and Components Quiz

Cell Theory

• All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
• The cell is the fundamental unit of life's organization.
• All cells originate from pre-existing cells.

Cell Components

• Cell Wall: A rigid, protective layer found in plant cells, providing structural support.
• Cell Membrane: A flexible outer layer controlling substance passage in and out of the cell. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Cytoplasm: The jelly-like substance containing organelles and dissolved materials; crucial for organelle movement. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Nucleus: The cell's control center, regulating cell activities and containing genetic material. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Nuclear Membrane: The membrane surrounding the nucleus, controlling what enters and exits. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Chromosomes/Chromatin: Structures in the nucleus composed of DNA; directing cell activities and passing traits. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): A network of channels and sacs transporting materials within the cell. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Ribosomes: Small structures producing proteins. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Mitochondria: Rod-shaped organelles, the "powerhouses" of the cell, breaking down food for energy. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Vacuoles: Fluid-filled sacs storing food, water, and waste. Larger in plant cells. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Lysosomes: Small sacs, primarily in animal cells, responsible for digesting cellular waste and debris. Absent in plant cells.
• Golgi Bodies: Stacks of flattened sacs processing and packaging proteins and fats. Present in both plant and animal cells.
• Chloroplasts: Green organelles in plant cells containing chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis. Absent in animal cells.

Cell Cycle

• Cells have a lifespan and must be replaced.
• The cell cycle controls cell production.
• Stages: Growth, DNA Replication, Growth, Mitosis (PMAT), Cytokinesis.
• Interphase: The main phase of the cell cycle, involving growth and DNA replication.
• Cell Cycle Checkpoints: Crucial points assessing conditions for cell division. Prevents division if nutrients are insufficient, DNA is damaged or not replicated.

Cell Death

• Cells die due to toxins, physical stress, or natural wear.
• Apoptosis (programmed cell death): A controlled process with specific purposes (e.g., removing webbing between fingers during fetal development).

Cancer and the Cell Cycle

• Cancer cells ignore cell cycle checkpoints, dividing uncontrollably, forming tumors.
• Tumor: Abnormal cell cluster.
• Benign: Non-spreading tumor.
• Malignant: Cancerous, spreading tumor.
• Carcinogens: Mutagens causing cancer (e.g., asbestos, tobacco smoke, UV radiation).

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy targets and kills rapidly dividing cells (like cancer cells).
• It can however have side effects on healthy rapidly dividing cells.

Stem Cells

• Stem cells differentiate into various cell types (animals only).
• Embryonic stem cells (totipotent and pluripotent) can become any cell type.

Animal Tissues

• Epithelial: Protective sheets covering body surfaces.
• Connective: Supports tissues (bones, blood, tendons).
• Muscle: Contracts for movement.
• Nerve: Transmits electrical impulses.

Plant Tissue

• Meristematic cells: Unspecialized plant cells giving rise to specialized tissues (dermal, ground, vascular).

Plant Organ Systems

• Root System: Absorbs water and nutrients.
• Shoot System: Supports the plant and performs photosynthesis.

Movement of Water in Plants

• Diffusion: Movement of molecules from high to low concentration.
• Osmosis: Water diffusion.
• Root Pressure (Push): Water pressure moving water upward in the plant.
• Transpiration (Pull): Water evaporating from leaves, pulling water up the plant via cohesion and adhesion.

Movement of Sap in Plants

• Spring: Sucrose moves upward carrying food for growth.
• Summer/Fall: Glucose moves downwards to be stored in the roots.

Cell Specialization and Differentiation

• Cell specialization: Development of specific functions by producing different proteins.
• Cell differentiation: Process of acquiring specialization.

Plant Organs

• Terminal Bud: Promotes upward growth.
• Stem: Supports and transports nutrients.
• Roots: Anchor plant, absorbs water and nutrients.
• Flower: Facilitates reproduction.

Chloroplasts

• Chloroplasts carry out photosynthesis using sunlight to produce glucose.

Test your knowledge on cell theory and the various components of cells. This quiz covers essential concepts such as the fundamental unit of life, the structure and function of the cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, and genetic material. Perfect for students learning about biology and cell structure.