Topic 1.1: Cells

Vocabulary flashcards covering Topic 1.1: Cells, including cell structures and organelles of animal, plant, and bacterial cells, as well as the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms.

Eukaryotic cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and other structures in the cytoplasm with membranes around them, typical of multicellular organisms such as animals and plants.

Prokaryotic cells

Unicellular ($1\text{ cell}$) organisms that lack a nucleus, such as bacteria.

Cell membrane

A structure that contains organelles, is permeable to some substances, and controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Cytoplasm

A jelly-like material containing dissolved nutrients and organelles, where chemical reactions take place.

Nucleus

An organelle that contains genetic material, including DNA, and controls cell activities.

Mitochondria

Organelles that contain the enzymes for respiration, where energy is released.

Ribosomes

Tiny structures where protein synthesis occurs.

Cell wall

A rigid outer layer present in plant and bacterial cells that provides structure; only plant cell walls contain cellulose.

Chloroplasts

Organelles that contain the green pigment chlorophyll, which absorbs light for photosynthesis.

Chromosomal DNA

A loop of DNA in bacterial cells that is not contained within a nucleus.

Plasmid DNA

Small closed circles of DNA in bacteria that carry extra genes.

Flagella

Structures that can rotate or move to propel the bacterium.

Vacuole

An organelle present in plant cells, but absent from both animal cells and bacterial cells.

Specialized animal cells

Animal cells adapted for specific functions, examples including sperm cells, nerve cells, and muscle cells.