Taylor Chapter 7

Cell theory

All organisms are made of cells and come from pre-existing cells.

Proteins

Molecules that perform most of the cell’s functions.

Nucleic acids

Biomolecules that store, transmit, and process information.

Carbohydrates

Provide chemical energy, carbon, support, and identity.

Plasma membrane

A selectively permeable barrier surrounding the cell.

Eukaryotes

Cells that contain a membrane-bound nucleus.

Prokaryotes

Cells that do not contain a membrane-bound nucleus.

Phylogeny

The evolutionary history of organisms.

Cytoplasm

All of the contents of a cell inside the membrane.

Chromosome

Contains DNA information and proteins that give structural support.

Plasmids

Small, circular supercoiled DNA molecules found in prokaryotic cells.

Ribosomes

The protein-manufacturing center of the cell.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers involved in cell shape, support, and transport.

Photosynthesis

Chemical reactions that convert energy from sunlight into chemical energy stored in sugars.

Organelles

Compartment inside cells, often membrane-bound, specialized for particular functions.

Cell wall

A tough layer surrounding the plasma membrane that protects and supports the cell.

Flagellum

A structure in prokaryotic cells made of proteins, aiding in movement.

Nucleus

The organelle that stores and transmits genetic information.

Nucleolus

Responsible for manufacturing and processing RNA molecules for ribosome assembly.

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Involved in synthesis, processing, and storage of proteins; has ribosomes.

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Contains enzymes that catalyze reactions involving lipids.

Golgi apparatus

The site of protein processing, sorting, and shipping.

Lysosomes

Function as recycling centers in animal cells.

Vacuole

General storage centers in plant and fungal cells.

Peroxisomes

Sites of oxidation reactions.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell, supplies ATP.

Chloroplast

Sugar-manufacturing centers in plants and algae.