Cell Structure Review (Chapter 4)

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to cell structure, cell theory, and microscopy.

Cell Theory

A biological concept stating that one or more cells comprise all organisms, the cell is the basic unit of life, and new cells arise from existing cells.

Prokaryotic Cells

Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; include Bacteria and Archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that have a membrane-bound nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Microscopy

An instrument used to magnify objects not visible to the naked eye.

Light Microscope

A microscope that uses visible light to illuminate specimens.

Electron Microscope

A microscope that uses a beam of electrons for higher magnification and resolution than light microscopes.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis.

Plasma Membrane

A protective layer that separates the cell's internal environment from its external environment.

Cytoplasm

The entire region of a cell between the plasma membrane and the nuclear envelope.

Organelles

Membrane-bound structures within a cell that perform specific functions.

Nucleus

The organelle that houses the cell's DNA and directs protein synthesis.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouses of the cell, responsible for ATP production through cellular respiration.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that carry out photosynthesis.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer structure found in plant cells that provides support and protection.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

A network of membranes involved in modifying proteins and synthesizing lipids.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages lipids and proteins for distribution.

Vesicles

Small membrane-bound sacs that transport substances within the cell.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain enzymes for digestion and recycling of cellular components.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers that maintains cell shape and enables movement.

Microfilaments

The narrowest fibers in the cytoskeleton, made of actin, involved in cell movement and support.

Intermediate Filaments

Fibrous proteins in the cytoskeleton that provide structural support.

Microtubules

Hollow tubes in the cytoskeleton that help maintain cell shape and assist in cell division.

Flagella

Long, hair-like structures that enable cell movement.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures that move substances along the cell surface.

Tight Junctions

Cell junctions that prevent leakage between adjacent animal cells.

Desmosomes

Connections between adjacent epithelial cells that provide strong adhesion.

Gap Junctions

Channels that allow for communication between adjacent animal cells.

Plasmodesmata

Channels that connect adjacent plant cells, allowing for transport and communication.

Central Vacuole

A large organelle in plant cells that stores water and maintains turgor pressure.

Peroxisomes

Organelles that oxidize fatty acids and detoxify harmful substances.

Cytosol

The gel-like fluid that makes up the cytoplasm, in which organelles are suspended.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus; condenses to form chromosomes.

Nuclear Envelope

A double-membrane structure that surrounds the nucleus and regulates passage of substances.