Lecture 4: Cellular Processes

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the lecture on Cellular Processes.

Cell Cycle

The series of phases that cells go through as they grow and divide.

Mitosis

Type of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

Type of cell division that results in four unique haploid daughter cells, essential for sexual reproduction.

Chromosome

Structures that carry genes and consist of DNA and proteins.

Homologous Chromosome

Pairs of chromosomes containing the same genes but possibly different alleles.

Interphase

The cell cycle stage where the cell spends most of its time, growing and replicating DNA.

Prophase

First stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and the nuclear membrane begins to disintegrate.

Metaphase

Stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane.

Anaphase

Stage of mitosis where sister chromatids separate and are pulled to opposite poles.

Telophase

Final stage of mitosis where nuclear membranes reform around the separated chromosomes.

Cytokinesis

Process where the cell divides its cytoplasm, resulting in two daughter cells.

Plasma Membrane

The cell boundary that separates the interior of the cell from the outside environment.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across the plasma membrane without energy input from the cell.

Active Transport

Movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (usually ATP).

Facilitated Diffusion

Movement of substances across a cell membrane via a transport protein without energy input.

Glycolysis

The first step of cellular respiration that splits glucose into pyruvate and produces a net gain of 2 ATP.

Krebs Cycle

Also known as the citric acid cycle, it takes place in the mitochondrial matrix and produces ATP, NADH, and FADH₂.

Oxidative Phosphorylation

Process in cellular respiration that generates ATP through the electron transport chain.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The energy currency of the cell, used to power cellular processes.