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Questions and Answers
What is the inner fluid-filled space of mitochondria called?
What role do cristae play in mitochondria?
Which of the following is NOT a component of the cytoskeleton?
What is a characteristic feature of prokaryotic cells?
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Which structure facilitates the movement of cells and maintains their shape?
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What do mitochondria primarily produce?
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What is the primary function of the plasma membrane in prokaryotic cells?
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Which component is found in the cell wall of prokaryotic cells?
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What structure helps motile bacteria move in a fluid medium?
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Which feature is characteristic of the cytoplasm in prokaryotic cells?
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Where is the chromosome located in prokaryotic cells?
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What are thylakoids primarily associated with in prokaryotic cells?
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What is a primary function of peroxisomes?
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Which of the following substances do peroxisomes help to break down?
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What is one of the main roles of vacuoles in plant cells?
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Which statement about vacuoles is true?
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Which enzyme in peroxisomes is responsible for breaking down hydrogen peroxide?
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What characteristic distinguishes plant vacuoles from those in animal cells?
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Study Notes
Prokaryotic Cells
- Prokaryotic cells are classified into two domains: archaea and bacteria; they lack a nucleus.
- The plasma membrane in prokaryotic cells regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cytoplasm.
- Cell walls are composed of peptidoglycan, which consists of chains of amino disaccharides linked by peptide chains.
- A capsule or slime layer, a gelatinous sheath, can surround the cell wall for additional protection.
- Flagella are long, thin appendages that enable motility in bacteria by propelling them through liquid environments.
- Fimbriae are short appendages that assist bacteria in adhering to surfaces.
- The cytoplasm contains a semifluid medium rich in ribosomes, facilitating protein synthesis.
- Prokaryotes possess a single chromosome (loop of DNA) located in a nucleoid region, which is not membrane-bound.
- Photosynthetic cyanobacteria contain pigments within thylakoids for capturing light energy.
Mitochondria
- Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles involved in energy production and are present in all eukaryotic cells.
- The inner space of mitochondria is called the matrix, which contains DNA, ribosomes, and enzymes for breaking down carbohydrates to release energy for ATP production.
- The extensive inner membrane has infoldings known as cristae, increasing surface area for protein complexes involved in ATP synthesis.
Cytoskeleton
- The cytoskeleton is a network of filaments and tubules that spans from the nucleus to the plasma membrane in eukaryotic cells.
- It plays crucial roles in maintaining cell shape and facilitating the movement of the cell and its organelles.
- Composed of three types of structural elements:
- Actin filaments, which support cellular structure and motility.
- Microtubules, which provide support and assist in intracellular transport.
- Intermediate filaments, which help maintain cell integrity.
Peroxisomes
- Peroxisomes are membrane-bounded vesicles containing enzymes for various biochemical reactions.
- They house enzymes that oxidize organic substances, producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a potentially toxic byproduct.
- Catalase, another peroxisomal enzyme, neutralizes hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and oxygen.
- They are prevalent in cells involved in lipid metabolism and liver cells that process alcohol, assisting in detoxification.
Vacuoles
- Vacuoles are large, membrane-bound sacs primarily found in plant cells.
- They serve multiple functions, including storage of substances and maintenance of turgor pressure for cell support.
- Vacuoles can contain pigments, contributing to the vibrant colors of flowers and leaves.
- They often store toxic compounds to deter herbivores and provide additional support for plant cells.
- Animal cells possess vacuoles, but they are generally less prominent compared to those in plant cells.
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Description
This quiz explores the characteristics and structures of prokaryotic cells, focusing on their classification into archaea and bacteria. Key features like the plasma membrane, cell wall composition, and protective structures such as capsules are covered. Test your knowledge on the vital functions these cells perform in various environments.
