Cell Size and Compartmentalization Guided Notes

Vesicles

Small membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within cells.

Phospholipid bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that makes up cellular membranes.

Exocytosis

The process by which vesicles fuse with the cell membrane to release their contents outside the cell.

Endocytosis

The process by which the cell membrane engulfs material, forming a vesicle to bring substances into the cell.

SA:V ratio

Surface area to volume ratio, crucial for cell efficiency in material transport.

High SA:V ratio

Indicates a greater surface area relative to volume, allowing for more efficient material exchange.

Cylinder shape

A shape that typically has a high surface area to volume ratio, enhancing diffusion efficiency.

Microvilli

Small, finger-like projections of the cell membrane that increase surface area.

Compartmentalization

The presence of membrane-bound organelles allowing for specialized functions within the cell.

Eukaryotic cells

Cells characterized by the presence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Endosymbiosis

The theory that explains the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts in eukaryotic cells.

Lysosomes

Organelles containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Double membranes

Two lipid bilayers surrounding organelles, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts.

Nuclear envelope

The double membrane surrounding the nucleus, involved in regulating entry and exit of materials.

Pore complexes

Protein structures within the nuclear envelope that permit the passage of molecules in and out of the nucleus.

Rough ER

Endoplasmic reticulum studded with ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis and processing.