A Tour of the Cell

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from Chapter 4 on cell biology, focusing on microscopy, cell structure, and function.

Microscopy

Techniques used to magnify and resolve fine details in biological samples.

Electron Microscope

A type of microscope that uses electrons to illuminate a specimen, providing higher resolution than light microscopes.

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio

A measure important for understanding the efficiency of material exchange across a cell's plasma membrane.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells without a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles, found in domains Bacteria and Archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, characteristic of animals, plants, fungi, and protists.

Nuclear Envelope

A double membrane that surrounds the nucleus, containing nuclear pores for transport of molecules.

Chromatin

A complex of DNA and protein found in the nucleus, which condenses to form chromosomes during cell division.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins from amino acids based on mRNA sequence.

Endomembrane System

A group of membranes and organelles involved in transport and metabolic functions within the cell.

Lysosome

A membrane-bound organelle containing enzymes for intracellular digestion.

Autophagy

The process by which lysosomes recycle cellular components.

Mitochondria

Organelles that produce ATP through cellular respiration; known as the powerhouses of the cell.

Chloroplasts

Organelles that carry out photosynthesis in plant cells.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that organizes structures and activities in the cell.

Microtubules

Hollow rods made of tubulin that support cell shape and are involved in cell division.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells, providing structure and protection.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins and carbohydrates outside of animal cells that helps with communication and structural support.

Intercellular Junctions

Structures that connect cells together, allowing for communication and material exchange between them.