Introduction to Cell Biology and Chemistry

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to cell biology and chemistry as discussed in the lecture.

Cell Membrane

The structure that encloses the contents of a cell and regulates the entry and exit of substances.

Organelles

Specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct processes.

Homeostasis

The process by which cells and organisms maintain a stable internal environment.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four haploid cells.

Carbon

An essential element that forms the backbone of most organic molecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Oxygen

An element necessary for cellular respiration and the formation of water.

Hydrogen

An element that plays a crucial role in energy transfer and acid-base balance in biological systems.

Nitrogen

An essential element found in proteins and nucleic acids; not present in carbohydrates.

Calcium

An important element for forming bones and teeth, and essential for muscle contraction.

Phosphorus

An element that is part of ATP and a major component of bones.

Potassium (K)

An element necessary for nerve function and maintaining membrane potentials.

Sodium (Na)

An element that helps maintain membrane potential and plays a role in blood pressure and volume.

Chlorine (Cl)

An electrolyte that helps form hydrochloric acid for protein digestion.

Magnesium (Mg)

An essential cofactor for enzymes and involved in muscle physiology.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate; the energy currency of the cell.

Elements of Life

Basic building blocks needed for life, including carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chlorine, and magnesium.

Protein Synthesis

The process by which cells create proteins based on the instructions carried by mRNA.