Chapter 03: Cells and Their Functions

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to cells and their functions.

Cell

The basic unit of structure and function in the body.

Differentiated Cells

Cells that have developed specialized characteristics.

Cytoplasm

The part of a cell that consists of organelles suspended in cytosol.

Cell Membrane

The outer boundary of the cell that regulates entry and exit of substances.

Phospholipid Bilayer

The framework of the cell membrane, consisting of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Fluid Mosaic Model

Describes the cell membrane's structure, where lipids and proteins can move fluidly.

Osmosis

The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from higher to lower water concentration.

Active Transport

The movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring ATP.

Endocytosis

The process of moving substances into the cell via vesicles.

Mitosis

The division of the nucleus during the cell cycle.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm that occurs after mitosis.

Cilia

Motile extensions of the cell membrane that can propel substances and cells.

Lysosomes

Membranous sacs containing enzymes that digest cellular debris.

Nucleus

The organelle that contains genetic material and controls cell activities.

Telomeres

Protective ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, acting as a mitotic clock.