Cells: Classification and Functions Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is an organelle?

A basic unit of all forms of life

A specialized structure that performs important cellular functions within a cell (correct)

A rigid structure that protects plant cells

A group of similar cells that perform a particular function

What is the basic unit of all forms of life?

Cell

What is a tissue?

Group of similar cells that perform a particular function

What defines an organ?

Group of tissues that work together to perform closely related functions Signup and view all the answers

Prokaryotic cells contain their DNA in a nucleus.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are eukaryotic cells characterized by?

Cells with a nucleus containing DNA and special organelles surrounded by a membrane Signup and view all the answers

Animal cells have a cell wall.

False Signup and view all the answers

Plant cells have chloroplasts.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the nucleus in eukaryotic cells?

Stores DNA and controls cell activities Signup and view all the answers

What do ribosomes do?

Read RNA to build polypeptide chains that fold into proteins Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of mitochondria?

Converts food (sugar) into energy (ATP) Signup and view all the answers

What do chloroplasts convert?

Carbon dioxide and water into sugar using sunlight Signup and view all the answers

What controls what is allowed to enter or leave the cell?

Cell membrane Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cell wall?

Protects and gives structure to plant cells Signup and view all the answers

What do lysosomes do?

Digest food and damaged cell parts Signup and view all the answers

What does a vacuole store?

Food, water, and waste materials Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Golgi apparatus?

Processes and packages proteins Signup and view all the answers

What is the endoplasmic reticulum used for?

Where proteins undergo folding Signup and view all the answers

What is the cytoplasm?

Gel-like liquid involved in transportation of materials and organelles Signup and view all the answers

What is a compound microscope used for?

To observe objects that cannot be seen with the naked eye Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cell Basics

Cells: The fundamental unit of life; all living organisms are composed of cells.
Tissues: Collections of similar cells that perform a specific function.
Organs: Composed of multiple tissues working together to carry out related tasks.

Cell Types

Prokaryotic Cells: Lack a nucleus. Smaller and simpler in structure, primarily found in bacteria.
Eukaryotic Cells: Contain a nucleus housing DNA. More complex with specialized organelles; examples include animal, plant, fungi, and protist cells.

Organelles and Their Functions

Organelle: A specialized subunit within a cell with specific functions.
Nucleus: Stores DNA and regulates cell activities; features pores for molecule exchange.
Ribosome: Synthesizes proteins by translating RNA into polypeptide chains; essential for producing hormones aiding in homeostasis.
Mitochondria: Generates ATP by converting sugar into energy; characterized by a folding inner structure.
Chloroplast: Performs photosynthesis, converting CO2 and water into sugar, exclusively found in plant cells; contains chlorophyll.
Cell Membrane: Semi-permeable barrier regulating material entry/exit; composed of lipids and proteins, involved in cell signaling.
Cell Wall: Provides structural support and protection to plant cells; consists of complex carbohydrates.
Lysosome: Digestive organelle containing enzymes to break down waste and damaged components.
Vacuole: Storage organelle holding food, water, and waste; particularly large in plant cells.
Golgi Apparatus: Processes and packages proteins into vesicles for cellular transport.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Site of protein folding; rough ER is studded with ribosomes, indicating protein synthesis.
Cytoplasm: Gel-like fluid facilitating the movement of materials and organelles, containing salts and nutrients for cellular function.

Microscopes

Compound Microscope: Tool for examining microscopic objects not visible to the naked eye, essential for cell study.

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Description

Explore the essential terms associated with cells, organs, and tissues through this set of flashcards. Each card provides a precise definition to enhance your understanding of cellular biology concepts. Ideal for students learning about cell structure and function.