VCE Biology - Unit 1: AOS1 How do cells function?

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to cell structure and function as discussed in the VCE Biology Unit 1 lecture notes.

What are the two main types of cells categorized by cellular features?

Prokaryotic cells and Eukaryotic cells.

What is the significance of the surface area to volume ratio in cells?

It is an important factor in the limitations of cell size and the need for internal compartments (organelles) with specific functions.

What are the key processes for the movement across the plasma membrane?

Osmosis, facilitated diffusion, and active transport.

What does the acronym MRS GREEN represent in terms of the criteria for living organisms?

Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Growth, Reproduction, Equilibrium, Excretion, Nutrition.

What is cell theory?

All living things are made up of cells, cells are the smallest units of life, and all cells come from pre-existing cells.

What are the main functions of the Golgi apparatus?

Sorting, modification, and packaging of proteins.

What distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are simpler, do not have a nucleus, and only form unicellular organisms; eukaryotic cells are complex, have a nucleus, and can be unicellular or multicellular.

What are the components of the plasma membrane?

Phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

What is the function of mitochondria in cells?

Site of ATP production through aerobic cellular respiration.

Describe osmosis in relation to water movement across the membrane.

Osmosis is the passive movement of water across the membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

What is the difference between passive and active transport?

Passive transport does not require energy and moves molecules down the concentration gradient; active transport requires energy (ATP) and moves molecules against the concentration gradient.

What is the role of chloroplasts in plant cells?

Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis and glucose production.

What is the process of endocytosis?

The process where the plasma membrane folds inward to form a vesicle that engulfs molecules into the cell.

What is the role of the cytoskeleton?

Maintaining cell shape and transporting vesicles throughout the cell.

How do plant and animal cells differ?

Plant cells have a cell wall, large vacuole, and chloroplasts, while animal cells do not.

What is the fluid-mosaic model?

It describes the structure of the plasma membrane, indicating that it is dynamic (fluid) and consists of various molecules (mosaic).