BCH 418: PLANT CELL

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure and function of plant cells as discussed in BCH 418.

Cytoplasm

The part of the cell within the plasma membrane but outside the nucleus, consisting of cytosol and organelles.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that contain chlorophyll and are the site of photosynthesis.

Vacuole

A membrane-bound organelle that stores substances and helps maintain turgor pressure in plant cells.

Cellulose

An unbranched polymer of D-glucose that constitutes the main component of plant cell walls.

Plasmodesmata

Microscopic channels that connect neighboring plant cells, allowing communication and transport of substances.

Nucleus

The membrane-bound organelle that contains the genetic material of the cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A network of membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis; consists of rough and smooth types.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or use within the cell.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments that helps the cell maintain its shape and aids in movement.

Microtubules

Cylindrical structures made of tubulin, part of the cytoskeleton, providing support and facilitating intracellular transport.

Plastids

Organelles in plant cells responsible for storage and photosynthesis, including chloroplasts and leucoplasts.

Protoplasts

Plant cells that have had their cell wall removed, allowing for study of cellular functions in isolation.

Pectin

A polysaccharide that forms the gel-like matrix in cell walls allowing for cell adhesion.

Lignin

A complex organic polymer that adds rigidity and strength to the secondary cell wall of plants.

Hemicellulose

Polysaccharides that are part of the plant cell wall, providing structural support.

Cytosol

The fluid component of cytoplasm in which organelles are suspended, not including the organelles themselves.

Cell wall

A rigid outer layer of plant cells that provides structural support and protection.

Calvin Cycle

A set of chemical reactions that take place in chloroplasts during photosynthesis.

ATP Synthase

An enzyme that creates ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate via chemiosmosis.