College Biology I- (BIOL 1610) – Study Guide-Exam #2

A set of study flashcards based on the lecture notes for College Biology I, focusing on key concepts from chapters 4 and 6-9 related to cell structure, metabolism, and processes.

What are the main differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Prokaryotes lack organelles, are smaller, have genetic material in the nucleoid; eukaryotes have membrane-bound organelles, are larger, with DNA in a nucleus.

What is the role of mitochondria in a cell?

Mitochondria generate ATP via cellular respiration.

What do desmosomes do in cellular structures?

Desmosomes anchor cells and provide mechanical strength.

What is the role of phosphofructokinase in glycolysis?

Phosphofructokinase regulates glycolysis and is inhibited by high ATP.

What happens during endocytosis?

During endocytosis, the cell engulfs external materials by forming vesicles.

What is quorum sensing?

Quorum sensing is bacterial communication based on population density to coordinate behavior.

How does substrate level phosphorylation differ from oxidative phosphorylation?

Substrate level phosphorylation directly transfers a phosphate to ADP; oxidative phosphorylation involves electron transport and a proton gradient.

Where do the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis take place?

The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.

What is the purpose of ATP in cellular processes?

ATP serves as the main energy currency, powering metabolic processes.

What are the two types of fermentation processes discussed in class?

Lactic acid fermentation and alcoholic fermentation.

How do plants in hot and dry environments (C4 plants) differ from most other plants?

C4 plants use a carbon fixation pathway that traps CO2, allowing stomata to remain closed longer to conserve water.

What components are involved in the extracellular matrix?

Proteins and carbohydrates provide structural support in the extracellular matrix.

What is the terminal electron acceptor in aerobic cellular respiration?

Oxygen is the terminal electron acceptor in aerobic cellular respiration.

What is the role of electron carriers like FAD and NAD+ in cellular respiration?

FAD and NAD+ transport electrons, becoming FADH2 and NADH during cellular respiration.

What is the primary function of chloroplasts in plant cells?

Chloroplasts conduct photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.