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Questions and Answers
Where is ribosomal RNA synthesized and ribosome sub-units assembled?
Why is the nucleolus referred to as the 'pacemaker of the cell'?
Where are chromosomal threads condensed into a tight coil?
Which organelle in the cytoplasm produces lipids and carbohydrates, and has no ribosomes?
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What is the function of rough ER?
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Which organelle is primarily composed of protein and RNA, smaller than nucleoli, and seen only in nondividing cells?
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What is the main function of the cell membrane?
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Which statement accurately describes the cytoplasm?
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Where is the nucleus usually located within a cell?
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Which part of the cell membrane is fluid-like?
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What are inclusions in a cell?
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How do pores in the nuclear membrane function?
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Study Notes
Cell Structure and Organelles
- The cell is the basic unit of the body's structure, consisting of the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane.
Nucleus
- The nucleus is a specialized spherical mass of protoplasm, usually located at the center of the cell.
- The nuclear membrane is composed of 2 layers with a small space between them.
- Ribosomes are sometimes attached to the outer membrane, while the innermost membrane is smooth.
- The two membranes fuse to form a thin single layer, forming a pore, which serves as an avenue for material exchange between the nucleoplasm and cytoplasm.
Nucleolus
- The nucleolus is the site where ribosomal RNA is synthesized and ribosome subunits are assembled.
- It plays a central role in regulating protein synthesis, earning it the title "pacemaker of the cell".
Chromatin Granules
- Chromatin granules are composed primarily of protein and RNA.
- They are smaller than nucleoli, have an irregular shape and size, and are only seen in non-dividing (interphase) cells.
- Chromatin granules are areas where chromosome filaments or threads are condensed by being wound into a tight coil.
- These chromosomal threads contain genes, which determine heredity.
Organelles in the Cytoplasm
- The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of channels or tubules pervading the entire cytoplasm.
- The ER is also composed of a lipid bilayer, similar to the cell membrane and nuclear membrane.
- There are two kinds of ER: smooth ER and rough ER.
- Smooth ER produces lipids or carbohydrates and glycogen, and has no ribosomes.
- Rough ER produces and synthesizes proteins and is scattered with regular ribosomes.
Cell Membrane
- The cell membrane, also known as the plasmalemma, is a lipid membranous bilayer.
- It is composed predominantly of phospholipids with a hydrophilic polar head (outside) and a hydrophobic nonpolar tail (inner part).
- The cell membrane is fluid, limiting, and separates the cell's contents from its external environment.
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Description
Learn about the basic components of a cell, including the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane. Understand the functions and characteristics of each part in detail.