Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells, Cell Theory, and Cell Division

These flashcards cover key concepts related to eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, cell theory, cell structures, and cell division.

What is a eukaryotic cell?

An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and are compartmentalized by membrane-bound organelles.

Name the four kingdoms of eukaryotic cells.

Protista, Animalia, Fungi, Plantae.

What advantage does compartmentalization provide in eukaryotic cells?

It enables organelles to maintain an internal chemistry different from the cytoplasm, optimizing their specific functions.

What are lysosomes responsible for?

Digesting cellular debris or engulfed pathogenic materials.

What would happen if lysosomal enzymes were not contained?

They could freely digest the contents of the cell, leading to cell death (autophagy).

What is the function of ribosomes?

They serve as the site of polypeptide synthesis (protein assembly).

Describe the structure of ribosomes.

Composed of protein and rRNA, with two distinct subunits: small (binds mRNA) and large (binds tRNA).

What is the role of mitochondria?

They synthesize ATP via aerobic respiration.

What is the Golgi apparatus responsible for?

Sorting, storing, modifying, and exporting cellular materials.

What is the composition of bacterial ribosomes?

70S ribosomes.

What are the three tenets of cell theory?

All living things are composed of cells; cells are the smallest units of life; all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

What is meant by totipotent cells?

Cells capable of dividing into any tissue; exist only in early embryonic stages.

What is differentiation in cells?

The process by which newly formed cells become specialized for specific functions.

What are mutagens?

Agents that change the genetic material of an organism.

What is a benign tumor?

A tumor that remains in its original location.

What is the purpose of the mitotic index?

To measure the ratio of cells in mitosis to the total number of cells.

What are two basic classes of genes that cause cancer?

Proto-oncogenes, which stimulate cell growth, and tumor suppressor genes, which regulate the cell cycle.

What is the function of contractile vacuoles?

To regulate osmotic conditions in unicellular organisms.